2007 Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit:
“Portraits of Alumni Achievement”

Estella Rodríguez ‘00

“Be patient when life gets in the way of your goals and don’t lose sight of them.”

Estella Rodríguez ‘00, BA
Attorney
Texas Rural Legal Aid

Estella Rodríguez has always been driven to see justice be done. As a child, her mother called her “la abogada” because she was always questioning her mother and wanting justification for her actions. In her first career, she was a journalist who wrote to help those in need, educate the public and be part of the checks and balances of government. Now, as an attorney, she works to champion justice and provide legal assistance to those who otherwise could not afford the services.

Rodríguez’ educational journey has been a long one, with many detours along the way that did not prevent her from receiving a law degree in 2005. Although she graduated with honors and in the top ten percent of her high school class, her dream of attending college would be cut short by the reality of having to work to contribute to the family income. After working with Southwestern Bell for several years, she changed careers to become a writer and eventually became managing editor of the Laredo Morning Times. It was during these years that she returned to college and received a bachelor’s degree.

Surrounded by family, friends, and countless mentors, Rodríguez accomplished her goal of becoming an attorney. She had to make many sacrifices to get to where she is, but she looks upon those times of adversity as a learning opportunity.