Meet Tania Neri-Rodriguez

Photo Credit:
by CAS MarComm December 5, 2022

Majors: Ethnic studies, women's and gender studies
Minors: English, political science, human rights and humanitarian affairs
Hometown: Omaha, NE

Why did you select your majors and minors?
My life. It really is that simple. I wanted to take what I have struggled with and help others and, well, I have to know what I’ve been through and others, too, to be able to teach or do something to fix the issues so close to home to me.

What is your favorite course?
Oh, maybe the "Ethnicity and Film" class and my women's and gender studies theory class. They are amazing. The professors down to the material.

Who have been some of your strongest mentors or role models here?
The director of Nebraska College Preparatory Academy, Moises, has been like a older brother to me, along with Abel and Grace. Vanessa has been like my mom and Steven has been like my slightly older brother looking out for me too. All of them work for NCPA too.

Do you have research experience (UCARE or other)?
I do a lot of research for my majors as they are very closely intertwined with my minors as well.

Have you had an internship or job? If so, how did your majors help with it?
I worked as a mentor for the Nebraska College Preparatory Academy that helps children from low income [households] and minorities afford college, and get the support they need with their educational journey throughout high school and college.

Have you studied abroad?
I studied abroad in Ireland and loved it. Making it a goal to go back to get my master's degree some day there.

What are you involved in on campus or in the community?
I’m involved in many organizations that hit close to home. Kappa Delta Chi (Kdchi) has been my sorority since my freshman year, NCPA is my employer and support system, William H. Thompson Scholars (WHT) is my backbone.

What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to get my master's possibly at Dublin City University (DCU) in Ireland for refugee integration if I submit my personal statement on time. (Kidding. Of course I will.)