Hello! My name is Jared Rodriguez and I am a first-generation student at UC Davis pursuing a degree in biological sciences. I'm half Filipino-Nicaraguan and I come from a low income household. Though financial hardships were prevalent throughout my childhood and continue through college, the values of commitment, integrity, and resilience that my family instilled in me continue to guide me in my path.
I'm passionate about healthcare, fitness, sports, music, and building community. My dream is to attend med school to pursue my passion in orthopedics, a field of healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system (treating injuries dealing with muscles, tendons, bones, and ligaments). I want to combine my love for fitness, sports, science, and helping others to make a positive impact in people's lives.
Community is an integral part of my identity. In high school, I was actively involved in my church youth group, where I helped grow the membership from just five students at the time of me joining to over 40 members in less than a year by creating a welcoming environment. I am also part of College Track, a program that supports first-generation college students like myself throughout college and graduate school. These experiences and programs have strengthened my communication, collaboration, and leadership skills, which are attributes I hope to carry with me at UC Davis, where I hope to start a 'College Track' Club, graduate with a degree in biology, and in my future as a physician. As a low-income UC Davis student, I am looking for support to help cover the costs of my education. Each and every donation brings me a step closer to achieving my educational goals and making the most of my experience here at UC Davis. Thank you for your support, not just as a student seeking support for my educational funds, but as someone who is committed to give back and support others through community.