Jason Rodriguez’s Desire to Make a Difference Shapes his Journey at the Alamo Colleges

Breaking out of your shell can be a tall task – and it also makes asking for help when you need it just as tough. Jason Rodriguez knows what this is like through personal experience.

Rodriguez, 20, a graduate of Luther Burbank High School, wasn’t always the most involved student, describing his shyness as a hindrance toward his academic and social growth. Add in some early-life financial struggles, and doubt surrounding his future started to settle in—not knowing if college was even an option or if it could build his confidence.

That’s when he discovered AlamoPROMISE. It was a way to attend college without the financial strain, and the Alamo Colleges District has since provided the avenue for him to leave his comfort zone.

“The AlamoPROMISE program changed my life,” Jason said. “I used to be a shy kid growing up and never asked for help. AlamoPROMISE has not only relieved the financial burden of attending college, but it has given me so many opportunities to connect with people. Seeing where I was to where I am now, wanting to be more involved and helping me explore what I want to do in the future. I can’t thank the Alamo Colleges enough.”

Finding His Direction

Attending San Antonio College (SAC), Jason found his sense of direction when he sought the advice from SAC’s Advocacy Center. They recognized his passion for helping others would fit perfectly in the Social Work program. This pathway opened up more doors for Jason, including a work-study position in the Carlos Alvarez Family Welcome Center at the ACCESS office to assist people seeking in-person guidance.

His dedication to caring for others has grown substantially throughout his time at the Alamo Colleges. Whether it’s guiding learners through the ApplyTexas application or connecting visitors to the right department, Jason feels compelled to serve those who feel lost or need support. He sees a lot of himself in those who struggle with everyday obstacles, and it’s why he feels social work is his true calling.

“I want to help students who are going through something that they’re nervous to talk about and be someone who they feel safe around,” Jason said. “I’ve become a person whose friends and family want to come to me and talk about personal problems. When they feel better after, it makes me feel better. Giving back and taking time to care for them is very rewarding for me, and I hope to inspire others to join that same cause.”

Growing Through Service

His development has not just been growing on a personal level, but also academically. For the Spring 2026 semester, he made the Dean’s list by earning straight A’s – something he never imagined would be possible. At a board meeting on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, he was honored as AlamoPROMISE Student of the Month for September, where he was recognized for maintaining a 3.03 GPA while balancing his work at the ACCESS building.

Jason’s success has also inspired his mother to finish her bachelor’s degree at Texas A&M University-San Antonio, where he helped her navigate today’s everyday college hurdles. He credits both his mother and father for instilling him with great work ethic, drawing motivation from their drive to provide everything they could to him and his twin brother. He also thanks his colleagues at the Welcome Center and Dr. Eve Rodriguez, who has helped him tremendously.

“My parents are such hard workers, and I owe a great part of my growth to them for always setting a good example for me and my brother,” Jason said. “I can also wholeheartedly say I feel like family there in the Welcome Center. Being a member of this special team has positively impacted my life in ways I never imagined. And Dr. Eve Rodriguez has played an integral role in my life, too – she helped guide me through college seamlessly, and I’m very thankful to know her.”

After graduating from San Antonio College, Jason plans to transfer to the University of Texas at San Antonio through the Promise-to-Promise program to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work. Ultimately, he plans to work toward a master’s in higher education administration to serve and guide learners while supporting the broader community.

Jason’s story is an example of what’s possible with determination and grit. No matter what you’re going through, anything is achievable with the right mindset and passion.

“Stick with it,” Jason said. “Do whatever makes you happy and try to encourage others and have that helping hand they may need. Whether it’s filling out paperwork or moving storage items around, understand you’re making a great impact. Follow your heart, and you’ll never go wrong.”