By Victoria McGee, vmcgee1@tulane.edu
The Posse Foundation has awarded Newcomb Scholar Sheccid Rodriguez, a class of 2025 Political Science and Environmental Studies major and Latin American Studies minor, with the prestigious Jeff Ubben Fellowship. This highly competitive program awards $10,000 to each fellow and gives them the opportunity to spend four to six weeks during the summer learning from a major industry leader.
Posse Scholars entering their sophomore year with a 3.7 GPA and demonstrated leadership potential are invited to apply. The application process includes a written application requiring detailed examples of leadership experiences and a discussion of career goals and a short video of the applicant stating why they are interested in the Jeff Ubben Fellowship Program. Those that pass this first evaluation step are then invited to participate in the interview round.
“I could not believe it when I was given the news that I was one of five students across the nation to be selected as a 2023 Ubben Fellow. I felt a wave of emotions similar to the ones I experienced when I got the news that I was selected to be a Posse Scholar back in December 2020 and am grateful that I got to share the moment with my amazing Posse mentor, Dr. Katherine Raymond. To this day, I am filled with gratitude to The Posse Foundation for all the amazing opportunities they have provided me and for continuing to believe in my potential even when I may not believe in myself,” said Sheccid Rodriquez.
Over the summer, Rodriguez was partnered with Levi Strauss & Co. President Michelle Gass. She was able to meet with and discuss Gass’ career experience and leadership approach. Rodriguez learned about the various divisions and positions in the corporate apparel company through her work with The Levi Strauss Foundation, Marketplace Insights, and Sustainability departments. Through this invaluable experience, Rodriguez says she is, “more excited to dive into the corporate realm and find a position within sustainability that will allow me to create meaningful change.”
The knowledge gained from this experience and excitement for her future is wrapped in a deep appreciation for her support network.
“This accomplishment would not have been possible without the community around me that supports me day in and day out. Thank you first and foremost to my parents who are there to cheer me on constantly, even if it is from more than 1,800 miles away. I would also like to thank everyone from Posse National, the Posse Los Angeles office, and Posse team here at Tulane University, the work they do truly changes students' lives.”
