Name: Katiria Rodriguez
Major: Managament
Hometown: Guaynaba, Puerto Rico
Where you’ll find her: RA in Overlook North, DA in High Mountain West, Treasurer of ALPFA, sister of Delta Phi Epsilon
Fun Fact: Born deaf.
Hobbies: Loves to sing, dance and sing.
Katiria isn’t the average student here at Willy P. A native of the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, Katiria (Kat) came to Willy P last year and immediately became involved on campus. Within her second year here she managed to snag an RA position on top of holding down a job as a DA. Kat balances academics, ambition, and fun all in one. You can usually find her with a smile, a bright hello, and a lovely tan thanks to the land of the coqui (frog native to Puerto Rico).
HC: What is your favorite thing about attending William Paterson?
KR: My favorite thing about Willy P is the diversity that it offers. You get to meet so many people and learn so many stories. It’s something I don’t think you can experience anywhere else.
HC: Speaking of stories I know you recently performed in the Vagina Monologues. What made you audition?
KR: I wanted to get out of my comfort zone while supporting and embracing women and feminism. This was a good chance to learn and become a better me.
HC: Why did you pick the major you’re in, and what do you wish to accomplish with it?
KR: I always enjoyed traveling so my dream would be to work for a travel agency or hotel chain in the corporate sector. The idea of being able to go somewhere and expand my horizons has always been something I dream about.
HC: Well speaking of traveling, you’re from Puerto Rico right? How is the education system different here in comparison to back home?
KR: The education system is very different compared to back home. When it comes to both financial aid and teaching methods I think Puerto Rico is better ahead. The education is more advanced and cheaper in Puerto Rico than here. In Puerto Rico I was taught topics that I’m learning in class now in college. That’s why in some of my classes I feel pretty ahead.
HC: What advice would you give any international or exchange students on making Willy P their home?
KR:My advice to international or exchange students is to just follow your heart. Life is too short to second guess yourself, so live it while you can.