The Richmond Promise Communications team is assisted in its work by the RP Marketing & Communications Intern. In this role, a current RP Scholar assists the Director of Communications in ideation and creation of external materials, particularly for use on social and digital media.

We are pleased to introduce you to our Fall 2026 intern, Jisselle Rodriguez. Jisselle is a third-year student at the University of Oregon and is a graduate of Salesian High School.

Q: First, some basic info. Tell us your name, current school, high school you graduated from and your major (or intended field of study).

A: Hello, RP community! My name is Jisselle Rodriguez. I am currently studying Business Administration at the University of Oregon with a concentration in sports business and marketing. I graduated in 2024 from Salesian College Preparatory located in the Richmond/San Pablo area, though my history in Richmond goes back much further. 

Growing up, my summers were filled with local community programs like the Salesian Boys and Girls Club, RPAL co-ed soccer club, Richmond Little League, and supporting other nonprofit organizations like Today’s Youth Matters based in the East Bay. Being deeply rooted in these spaces for the youth of Richmond has really built my passion for being surrounded by and giving back to the same community that raised me.

Q: What are you most looking forward to about being a RP Marketing & Communications Intern and what are you hoping to get from the experience?

A: What I am most excited about in this role is having the space to apply my graphic and editing skills while being challenged and supported by my team. Though the true value of this internship lies in its mutual benefit nature: allowing students like me to gain hands-on marketing experience while actively supporting Richmond Promise’s mission to expand higher education access for our youth.

Q: If you were going to give advice to a high school senior about going through the college application process, what would it be?

A: My top advice for high school seniors is to start your research early. Also, take your time to explore different aspects of each school–from application requirements and essay prompts, to career pathways and overall campus culture. It’ll allow you to really think about where you believe you’ll truly thrive.

Q: What’s the best part about being in college/what should a high school senior look forward to?

A: Since my very first day of college, I have felt immense gratitude for the independence, personal growth, and fun adventures my experience has brought me so far. Life at this stage can feel both exciting and intimidating at times, though I believe maintaining a positive outlook can certainly turn those challenges into opportunities to learn and grow.

Q: Big question…what do you want to contribute to Richmond and/or the world?

A: Some of the community programs I listed from my childhood unfortunately no longer operate in the same standard from when I remember as a kid. In the future, I hope to contribute my time in establishing or calling attention to the need for more third spaces for the kids of Richmond. Supporting them in either education, creativity, or agility through sports. I would love to give back my community by allowing future generations to experience the same beautiful and loving people this city has to offer.

Q: What are you most looking forward to after college?`

A: After college, I’m excited to see where in this country–or world–my career takes me next! With the continued support of my family, peers, and Richmond Promise, I feel confident and eager to embark on a fulfilling post-grad journey.