Meet Undergraduate Commencement Speaker Stephanie Rodriguez Salguero
Human physiology major Stephanie Rodriguez Salguero will deliver the student remarks during the CLA Undergraduate Commencement on Sunday, May 17 at 11 a.m.
Originally from Oakdale, Minnesota, she is also minoring in medical Spanish and is a member of the University’s BA/MD program. She works as a medical scribe in emergency departments across the metropolitan area, collaborating with physicians and physician assistants to document patient care—an experience that has been deeply formative. She is also committed to mentorship and education, serving as a STEM tutor for the AVID program at a local high school, where she supports students’ academic success and encourages them to pursue higher education.
What is your favorite class that you took in CLA? Is there a professor that you particularly enjoyed working with?
My favorite class has been SPAN 3404: Medical Spanish and Community Health Learning with Professor Erma Nezirevic. During this course, I had the opportunity to serve as an interpreter at a free clinic for Spanish-speaking patients. This experience allowed me to observe patient care in a clinical setting while working with a population that is often uninsured and faces challenges navigating the healthcare system. Professor Nezirevic emphasized the importance of accurate and compassionate medical interpretation, skills that I hope to carry into my future career as a physician. Beyond the classroom, I learned from physicians, nurses, and most importantly, the patients themselves, making this experience especially meaningful.
How would you describe your time in your major?
I would describe my time in my major as both challenging and rewarding. One of the most important lessons I learned early on was how to effectively manage my time (and my caffeine intake!). The coursework pushed me to think critically and approach problems from new perspectives. I especially enjoyed learning about the body’s organ systems and how they work together to maintain homeostasis. While there were many late nights and early mornings, the experience has been incredibly fulfilling.
Why is a liberal arts education important to you?
A liberal arts education is important to me because it fosters well-rounded individuals. It not only prepares us for a career but also teaches us how to think critically, communicate effectively, and engage with the world around us. During my time in CLA, I was exposed to perspectives outside of my field, which challenged my assumptions and broadened my understanding. Many of the skills and topics I encountered, are ones that I initially did not expect to use, have become relevant in my everyday life.
What's next for you? What are your post-graduation plans?
After graduation, I plan to take an enrichment year, during which I will continue working as a medical scribe and STEM tutor. Following this, I hope to begin medical school. My long-term goal is to become a pediatric general surgeon and overall serve underserved communities.
