Oklahoma State University: Family And Consumer Sciences Education Sophomore Awarded National Scholarship

Press release from Oklahoma State University:

2022-03-08

Family and consumer sciences education sophomore Leslie Rodriguez was recently awarded
the National Bettye Brown Scholarship, given by the National Association Teachers
of Family and Consumer Sciences. This scholarship honors students driven to make an
impact in family science education.

To Rodriguez, pursuing a career in family and consumer science education is all about
empowering students to achieve success in and outside of the classroom while instilling
confidence, purpose and compassion.

Why did you choose to study at Oklahoma State University?

I chose to study at OSU mainly because of the Department of Human Development and Family Science. My mentor graduated from this program and encouraged me to apply. She was there
every step of the way and continues to be a huge help as I navigate my college career.

Are you involved in any student organizations on campus?

I am involved in a few student organizations on campus. Most of my time goes to the
Family and Consumer Sciences Education Club where members collaborate with others
that are going into the same field. I currently serve as president and I have been
active since my freshman year. We have been able to hear from amazing teachers around
the state.

I am also a scholar in the Inclusion Leadership Program. This program allows second
year college students to learn about being leaders in a diverse, inclusive society.
We also get to form a mentorship with students in surrounding high schools.

How did you find your passion in family and consumer sciences education?

The time I spent in high school helped me discover a career in Family and Consumer
Sciences (FCS). I was heavily involved in Family, Career and Community Leaders of
America (FCCLA), a student-led organization where I could be a leader and put my skills
to use. At the time, I was just having fun in an organization with my friends, but
I was also working on my personal development. I strongly believe one person’s enthusiastic
attitude can inspire others. I was grateful to have four amazing FCS teachers that
did just that. Going forward, I want to help students learn important skills, knowledge
and enthusiasm to go out into the real world and inspire others. FCS connects people
in the classroom and those experiences have long-term impacts on students’ lives just
as it did in my life. 

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to move back to Tulsa, Oklahoma, and get a job as a family
and consumer science teacher in a public school. What I find very exciting about this
field is that it is an everchanging world. Especially with the recent pandemic, people
are angsty to return to normal. My hope is to go in with an enthusiasm that makes
people want to get more involved and help our community grow.

The tagline for the College of Education and Human Sciences is: People. Passion. Purpose.
What does this mean to you? How does it relate to your studies?

This tagline highlights the things I value in my life and what I choose to hold onto
as I go through life’s hardships. Now more than ever, I think it is easy to lose track
of what you are working towards. I have made so many great connections with professors,
current FCS educators and student teachers. I have been able to surround myself with
people that build me up and encourage me to grow and persevere. A career in FCS will
allow me to help others by teaching courses that made me successful in many aspects
of my life, and that’s where my passion comes from.

What advice would you give to incoming freshman?

The best advice that I got when I started college was to get out of my comfort zone
and to stay out. It’s so easy to put in the hard work to get connected at the beginning
of the year, then cruise through the rest of the school year. There is so much to
do and learn.

Story By:
Sierra Walter | sierra.walter@okstate.edu

This press release was produced by Oklahoma State University. The views expressed here are the author’s own.