Meet Krystal Blas Rodriguez, DFC Graduate | Interview

Krystal shared a bit of her story with us about her experience at the Dougherty Family College (DFC)

Krystal recently shared that Dougherty Family College (DFC) at St. Thomas University in the Twin Cities was not her first choice for college.  However, as a first generation college student Krystal was prioritizing financial accessibility and an option that would keep her close to her family. Luckily, DFC’s location and cost gave her the opportunity to pursue her college dreams. 

Krystal now defines DFC as a transition. This was her first time experiencing college and DFC provided an opportunity to grow into a well-rounded person.  Like many college freshmen, Krystal learned to organize herself and learned to be financially independent. She felt that the DFC helped her to develop not only her academic and professional skills, but her personal skills as well.  Since enrolling at Dougherty, her network and her ability to connect and communicate with so many different people has grown exponentially.  

Of all the memorable experiences Krystal had at DFC, Krystal speaks most affectionately about the many friends that are now a part of her life.  In particular, she talks about Jessica because not only did they become friends through Dougherty, but they also have traveled the same academic journey together.  After graduating DFC, both Krystal and Jessica went on to pursue bachelor degrees at St. Thomas.  Krystal is so thankful that these new friends have become such an important part of her life. 

Fast forward to today, Krystal is now a DFC graduate and has earned her bachelor’s degree from St. Thomas University in Political Science. The complexity of law and government and an internship she held at Citizens League, a public policy focused think tank, have her  considering pursuing a job in this sector.  With the support of her parents, Krystal is also considering an advanced degree in law.  Currently, she works as a Sales Associates at an Optical retail store as she continues to search and apply for jobs with the help of DFC staff.

Regardless of how her professional career develops, Krystal will always be an advocate for people while helping them to become more politically involved.