Student to graduate at last

Twenty-six years after first enrolling at Citrus College, a 44-year-old student is graduating on June 12.

Gustavo Rodriguez, who has majored in urban and regional planning, first enrolled at Citrus in 1984. Most of the classes he took were construction related, like drafting, water technology and public works.

Then, in March 2002, Rodriguez was involved in an industrial accident. His right arm was amputated and his left arm was fractured. He underwent about 10 surgeries after the accident.

"Since my accident, everything became a struggle," Rodriguez said. "Honestly, I didn't know what to do after that."

But the traumatic experience did not stop Rodriguez from pursuing his educational goals.
In summer 2005, Rodriguez enrolled again at Citrus, this time taking basic skills courses. He followed a path toward a degree.

"I didn't know what to expect," he said. "I didn't know if I could handle all the obstacles that I would face."

Last year, Rodriguez received an award from Disable Students Programs and Services (DSP&S) for scholastic ability. Counselor Vince Mercurio helped Rodriguez plan and attain his educational goals.

"He is a rare student and really responsible," Mercurio said. "He is a great guy."

Rodriguez acknowledged his wife, who supported him every step of the way.
"She makes everything looks so easy," he said.

They have been together for 22 years now, including 12 years of marriage.

Language arts professor Gina Hogan was Rodriguez's professor for a couple semesters.
"[Rodriguez] has a tremendous sense of accomplishment, with enthusiasm for education and lifetime learning," Hogan said. "He is admirable."

Rodriguez's hobbies include cycling and running. He participates in 5K and 10K races. He is also a volunteer wrestling coach at his alma mater, Arroyo High School, in El Monte.

He is a role model who treats the children in the wrestling program as if they were his own.

"I am here to support the kids in place of their parents who can't make it to the competitions," he said.

The youngest of eight children, Rodriguez is the first in his family to graduate with a degree and transfer to a four-year university.

Rodriguez is transferring to Cal Poly Pomona, and construction is still the career he wants to pursue.

"Construction is my life," he said.

Graduation has a lot of meaning for Rodriguez. With all the trials he has undergone, it is a hugely and rewarding step forward for him.

"I feel that I really worked hard for it," Rodriguez said. " [Graduation] is my reward. I conquered Citrus."

Reflecting on his life leading up to earning a degree, Rodriguez said "we are here on borrowed time."

"We don't know what our destiny is," he said. "Love what you do and do what you love. "