Star Scientist
Reagan Student Leverages NEISD Prep Programs for College/Career Readiness
By Amy Morgan
NEISD’s AVID college-readiness program has propelled yet another Ronald Reagan High School student’s upward trajectory – opening doors to college and career that might not have been previously considered. Senior Diego Rodriguez was recruited into AVID his eighth-grade year at Lopez Middle School. Now he serves as Treasurer in what he deems a “big welcoming community.” While Diego has appreciated the opportunity to tour college campuses as far away as Corpus Christi, it has been the internship experiences AVID has afforded that have proved most valuable to him.
AVID teacher Ms. Gail Newberg’s encouragement not to be afraid to take a risk proved fruitful, as Diego was one of only 10 incoming juniors who was chosen for the Texas Biomedical Research Institute sponsored by Valero in the summer of 2025.
“The Valero Young Scientist Program at Texas Biomed will help inspire local students to be part of the next generation of scientists and provide them unparalleled access to learn from leading biomedical scientists,” according to the program. During his four-week term, Diego learned how to
genetically modify a strain of bacteria to glow in the dark and created a simple research presentation on Ebola. In 2026, the students were invited to return to the lab and learn about the ways vaccines prevent infectious diseases. Diego credits his medical terminology teacher, Ms. Heather Ellis, for suggesting the program and writing his letter
of recommendation.
Diego plans to pursue a health care career as a way to fulfill his desire to help people most directly. He’ll study biology at UTSA next fall, entering an accelerated bachelor of science in nursing program in partnership with the UT Health Science Center that pairs a science degree with a minor in
nursing. But before he’s ready to take on UTSA’s campus, Diego will complete classes through the NEISD CTEC program to qualify as a Certified Medical Assistant.
Diego also interned with Congressman Tony Gonzalez his junior year, knocking on doors canvassing District 23 during the 2026 election season. On Sunday, Diego serves on the greeting team at Northrock church, which means he stays for an extra service after attending with his family. “Volunteering is my way to give back to my church,” he said.
Somehow, Diego fits playing trumpet in Reagan’s marching band into his busy weekday schedule. He joins 300 of his peers on the field as he performs this year’s show, “With Every Breath,” based on the hit by the Police. “Friday night lights bring back good memories,” Diego said, noting he’s developed his closest friendships through band. Last summer he took a part-time job with one such friend who also shares his last name – although they are not related. Diego and Aiden Rodriguez both worked at the Stone Oak Chuzz Burgers, where Diego “brushed up on hospitality training.” Diego’s personality shone even at the milkshake station – leading a representative from the chain’s corporate headquarters to select him to participate in the company’s training video.
“Everybody goes big in San Antonio,” Diego said, “if you are going to do something you better give it your all.” A fitting motto for a Reagan rising star.
