May 2, 2022, GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- As a college completion coach for GRCC, Jose Rodriguez provides the support students need to get into their field of study. He compares the job to being “a student’s personal cheerleader.”
Start at GRCC and go anywhere. Every former student has a story to tell about how GRCC gave them the education and opportunity to be successful.
Rodriguez is a GRCC alumnus, so he knows first-hand the challenges students face. He’s also a current student: pursuing a health sciences degree at Grand Valley State University. He credits GRCC with giving him both the academic and people skills he needs for his dual roles.
“GRCC does a great job of accommodating students to their needs,” said Rodriguez, who was involved in ALAS, NIA and the Brother 2 Brother Network on campus. “Being a close-knit community helps when you’re trying to maneuver the challenge that is higher education.”
The college completion coach program, offered through the Michigan College Access Network, aims to improve equity and inclusion in higher education.
“I have been lucky enough to be able to relate to the population of students I help on a personal level,” Rodriguez said. “Whether it be struggling through a system as a minority, being a first-generation student or facing the struggles of mental health illnesses, I want my students to know there is always light at the end of the tunnel -- and I’ll be there the whole way to guide them.
“GRCC is my second home, and I hope it can be yours, too.”
Let GRCC help you start your story. The first chapter starts at grcc.edu/apply.