Jose Manuel Rodriguez ’06
What have you been up to since graduation?
After graduating from MCC I transferred to John Jay College of Criminal Justice CUNY where I earned a BA in Forensic Psychology. I obtained my MA in Counseling from FDU – Madison and am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in the State of NJ. I have worked as an Adoption Specialist for the Department of Child Permanency and Protection. I have also worked as an adjunct faculty member at Montclair State, teaching courses such as Introduction to Psychology and Hispanic Latino Psychology.
I am currently working as a Clinical Consultant for Bergen’s Promise Care Management Organization, part of the State of New Jersey’s Children System of Care. I assist DCPP staff by providing training pertaining to mental health, substance use and the Wraparound Model. I have an opportunity to work in corrections as a mental health counselor as well.
What is one of your greatest achievements since graduation from MCC?
I have been able to present in state and national conferences such as the New Jersey Counseling Association and the National Social Workers Association.
What is your fondest memory of MCC?
I always appreciated the MCC campus, especially during springtime, being able to enjoy the campus grounds, sitting on the grass and studying under a tree and enjoying the sun. I also liked student-watching, seeing them hanging out with friends before class.
What was your favorite place on campus and why?
College Center: the food was good and I always appreciated being able to practice my Italian 101 with the staff there.
Who was your favorite professor and why?
Dr. Daine Grey for Child Psychology and my abnormal psychology professor. They kept class very interesting by bringing their professional experience into the classroom.
If you could offer a current MCC student advice, what would it be?
Stay focused and know you made the right choice by attending MCC. The classroom size and the expertise that MCC professors bring into the classroom are valuable and will definitely be useful later on in your career.
Why was going to MCC the right decision for you?
It helped me gain the discipline and guidance needed as the first one in my family to graduate from college. I was able to gain the support needed to be successful in my college and professional career.