There is so much that has unfolded – and continues to unfold – throughout my educational and professional journeys. I often find myself eager to catch up with folks who I have encountered in my many different life phases, whether middle school or high school teachers, college professors, mentors, etc., or anyone in the networks I’m honored to be a part of. The reality is our time is limited and we cannot build upon every relationship we wish to.

However, I am extremely grateful for every connection made and to those who reach out when I have achieved a new milestone, encourage me to continue forward in adversities, or use me as an example to help empower our communities. I never take for granted the ongoing support of my former teachers, counselors, coaches, professors, and many other faculty and staff members. Each of them have played critical roles in the person I am today and they are correct in their way to celebrate my wins as their own. Some of which have helped connect me with other students and fellow alumni from institutions I graduated from. I find immense joy when I connect with younger adults in search of guidance as they navigate their career paths and am filled with waves of gratitude for those ahead in their careers who have extended me their guidance.

There are moments I am asked what have I created out of this life I’m being gifted or what endeavors I hold. This digital space serves the purpose to answer some of the curiosities about my whereabouts in both the vocational and avocational aspects of my life. As someone who has struggled embracing my versatilities, I only hope to be evidence of how we can learn to embrace our diverse skill set in order to express ourselves, uplifting the stories of our ancestors and the stories of those for whom we are paving the way.

Since obtaining my bachelor’s in 2018, I worked part-time jobs while awaiting my leave for a 9-month Fulbright English Teacher Assistantship in Brazil. I moved to Brazil in early 2020 but we all know how that year went. After my unprecedented return to the U.S, I submitted endless job applications, most of which I didn’t receive decisions on. While playing the waiting game, I decided to volunteer my time by interning for one of the leading resettlement agencies in the United States (U.S). During this time I coached one client through my health coaching business, was contracted to develop wellness workshops for a youth summer program, and served as staff in an online youth language program.

Upon completing my internship I was hired as a full-time employee where I provide case management services to recently arrived refugees in New York City. I came onto the team at the height of the Operation Allies Welcome led by the Department of Homeland Security, an evacuation plan to help resettle Afghan refugees in the U.S. As in any crisis, it was extremely intense and it affected my overall health. Nearly 2 years onto the role, I am just now learning how to prioritize my values and understanding the many different ways work environments perpetuate and uphold capitalist and neocolonialist ideals. I have created necessary boundaries that help me sustain a healthy lifestyle, one where I don’t lose sight of my ambitions and remember the power my voice holds in advocating for myself and others. Nevertheless, regardless of the challenges faced I have a responsibility to carryout quality work with great conviction. It is a true honor and privilege to serve the refugee population. I trust God will continue guiding me in the direction where the skill set and capabilities He has gifted me with are most valued.

The plan is to share updates like these every so often, likely quarterly. Updates will include short reflections from professional experiences, creative and social entrepreneurial projects, and opportunities to support my endeavors (who knows maybe you’ll be the first to know when my first book goes public!). You may subscribe to be notified when updates become available or simply return to this website for updates: naomirodriguezjose.com