When Marcela Rodriguez arrived at the University of Notre Dame, she never expected the journey ahead, one shaped by curiosity, determination, and a drive to give back. Now a junior double-majoring in Marketing and Visual Communication Design with a minor in Latino Studies, Marcela’s story highlights the power of community and self-discovery, fueled by her experience as an Alexander Hamilton Scholar. Marcela’s passion for marketing began in high school, where leadership roles showed her the impact of communication."I realized I liked community engagement and marketing’s role in connecting people,” she shares.
Marcela’s passion for marketing began in high school, where leadership roles showed her the impact of communication. “I realized I really liked community engagement and marketing’s role in connecting people,” she shares. This mix of creativity and strategy led her to marketing—an ever-evolving field that allowed her to explore and create. Alongside marketing, she pursued Visual Communication Design to challenge herself. “I never thought I had an artistic side, but I took a chance and discovered something I love,” she says.
Her minor in Latino Studies reflects a personal mission to reconnect with her roots. “I wanted to explore Latino history inside and outside of America,” Marcela explains. This journey added cultural depth and purpose to her art and design.
Marcela credits much of her growth to the Alexander Hamilton Scholars (AHS) program. The application process itself was eye-opening, showing her that students are more than just grades. “It made me realize there’s so much more to a student than academics,” she recalls. Once accepted, AHS became a source of inspiration. “The people I’ve met through AHS inspire me daily. Their dreams are unique, and they work so hard. It’s motivating to know I can do that too.” AHS mentors played a crucial role in shaping her path. Kelly helped her choose the right major, while Lynell’s feedback on college essays gave her confidence. “If I hadn’t had someone to help me express my passions, I don’t know where I’d be,” Marcela reflects.
Her internships and part-time roles reinforced the value of community and learning without fear. “Working with AHS showed me how much I value being in a space where I can ask questions freely,” she says. This summer, she helped new scholars start their college journeys, seeing her own growth reflected in them. “Watching them experience what I did reminded me how much I owe to this program.”
Marcela has faced challenges—imposter syndrome, harsh Indiana winters, and balancing work and study. Yet, she’s learned to embrace exploration and trust herself. She envisions working with a mission-driven team where she can use marketing and design to amplify marginalized voices. “As long as the values align with mine, I know it’ll be fulfilling,” she affirms.
Marcela’s story isn’t just about personal success but about creating opportunities for others. “AHS isn’t just a program; it’s a community that uplifts and empowers,” she says. With each project, she continues to bridge creativity, culture, and collective good—shaping a future as vibrant and resilient as she is.
Through Alexander Hamilton Scholars (AHS), Marcela discovered more than mentorship and academic guidance—she found a place to grow, express herself, and give back. From discovering a hidden artistic side to mentoring new scholars herself, she’s now using her education to amplify marginalized voices through creativity and mission-driven work.
