Dallas College

Student Experience: Maris Rodriguez

Maris Rodriguez was a high school dropout and didn’t think she had much of a future. Because of Dallas College and the STEM Institute, Maris has been rejuvenated with life and is now pursuing a dream of working for NASA. Maris recently was part of the NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars program at the Ames Research Center in California. Now, with a Dallas College associate degree in hand, Maris is transferring to the University of Texas to continue her educational journey and further chase her NASA dreams.

“My dream job is to be a mathematician at NASA, so I can help with science exploration and study unknown phenomena,” she said. Maris is currently in the NASA L’SPACE Program, which is designed for STEM students interested in pursuing a career with NASA or other space organizations.

“Dallas College not only gave me a second chance at an education and career, but it gave me a second chance at life,” Maris said. “I want to inspire people with my story and to never doubt yourself.”


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Ibrahim Taleb

Ibrahim Taleb

Game Design student Richland
“Every professor in this program can really talk about the software we’re learning. I wouldn’t be so interested in my classes if they weren’t so good”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
Gabriel Holzapfel

Gabriel Holzapfel

Eagle Top Gaming
“With a professional and direct attitude, I can lead and direct teams in software and game design or serve as a self-reliant member of the production team. Trained in Game design and production art, I can serve and accomplish a variety of tasks as production progresses and different skills are needed.”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
Ethan Brackin

Ethan Brackin

3D Studio Owner
“I chose this program for the strength of the program of classes. The class structure was much more focused on specific skill sets, lending more experience to a particular field of choice, which for me was 3D modeling and 3D sculpture. I was able to strengthen my drawing skills, which enabled me to realize my concepts better.”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
Eskinder Girma

Eskinder Girma

Concept Artist
“Eskinder’s been enthusiastic about visual art and entertainment design all his life, which has led to him working as a freelance artist on both traditional and digital mediums. Now he is studying in the Interactive and Game Simulation Program.”
Interactive Simulation and Game Technology (Game Design)
Portrait photo of Maris Rodriguez
Maris Rodriguez
Transfer Student, University of Texas
Mathematics (Math)
School of Engineering, Technology, Mathematics and Sciences
Updated September 4, 2026