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Dallas College

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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Portrait photo of Maris Rodriguez
Maris Rodriguez
Transfer Student, University of Texas
Mathematics (Math)
School of Engineering, Technology, Mathematics and Sciences
Updated December 16, 2025