College News

Rodriguez Attends Farash Scholarship Dinner, Has Successful First Semester

11/29/2012

Luis Rodriguez is finishing up his first semester at Fisher, and as the College’s first Farash Scholar, he has taken advantage of every opportunity given to him.

In January 2012, the Max and Marian Farash Charitable Foundation in Rochester announced a new scholarship program called “First in Family,” which enables selected students from Monroe and Ontario Counties to graduate from college debt-free. The scholarships are available to students who are the first in their immediate families to attend college. The First-in-Family Scholarship (FIF) covers the cost of tuition, fees, and room and board that is not otherwise covered by federal, state, or college scholarships or grants. In spring 2012, Rodriguez was selected as the first scholar to attend Fisher, and the College is in the process of reviewing scholarship candidates for fall 2013.

Dr. Bain and Luis Rodriguez at a recent Farash Scholar dinner.

In his short time at Fisher, Rodriguez has participated as a volunteer at the Haunted Hayride events this past October, and also volunteered at the March of Dimes Chef Auction earlier this month. He plans to volunteer at some upcoming Breakfast with Santa events as well. While he has not officially joined any clubs or organizations this semester, he has attended events held by the Latino Student Union, Black Student Union, and Student Activities Board and says he will most likely become a member of one or two clubs this spring.

Off campus, Rodriguez has been a volunteer at Jefferson High School in Rochester, tutoring refugees in English.

“I have truly enjoyed volunteering as a whole this past semester at Jefferson, and these past few months have allowed me to grow like never before as an individual,” said Rodriguez. “Community service has allowed me to reflect on my progress and give back to students who will also be the first in their family to attend college. And the simple fact that I might be inspiring these students to do better than I did in high school is truly a blessing.”

Rodriguez is also a member of the Fannie & Sam Constantino First Generation Scholarship Program.

“The Farash Foundation and First Generation program have given me an opportunity to succeed and become a leader, as well as be the first from my family to attend college,” he said. “I am truly taking advantage of the opportunity I been given, and it is my hope that, just like the Farash Foundation has helped me, I will be able to help future first generation scholars.”