
This photo is about Ms. Rodriguez standing in her guidance room when we took the photo.
Ms. Rodriguez is a guidance counselor at Iselin Middle School in Iselin, NJ, and she helps many students through tough times.
Panther Press: Hi, Ms. Rodriguez.
Ms. Rodriguez: Hi Aarav and Adaora.
Panther Press: What might be your favorite color?
Ms. Rodriguez: My favorite color is blue.
Panther Press: What is your favorite food?
Ms. Rodriguez: My favorite food would be lasagna.
Panther Press: Why did you choose to become a Guidance counselor?
Ms. Rodriguez: I wanted to become a guidance counselor to help all students believe that they can feel great about themselves and not feel negative. I also want them to make new friends, join clubs, and do anything that involves making new friends.
Panther Press: How do you feel about people bullying?
Ms. Rodriguez: I feel that it is wrong and that no student should be in a situation where people are bullying one another.
Panther Press: How do you see the role of a guidance counselor in supporting the school’s overall mission?
Ms. Rodriguez: I think any school counselor has the role for students to succeed.
Panther Press: Tell me about some of your hobbies.
Ms. Rodriguez: I like to read, spend time with my family and friends and I love to do yoga.
Panther Press: Tell me some advice to give to kids to get out of their comfort zone.
Ms. Rodriguez: Joining extra clubs and playing sports can get you out of your comfort zone.
Panther Press: How do you handle situations where a student struggles to make friends or build positive relationships?
Ms. Rodriguez: I think they should join a school club and anywhere else they can to make friends.
Panther Press: Do you have any other jobs besides being a guidance counselor?
Ms. Rodriguez: Well, I do love my job. I also have another job where I go to Middlesex County College to schedule classes.
Panther Press: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Ms. Rodriguez: No, thanks