Genesis Rodriguez-Hernandez, a recent graduate of Cedar Shoals High School, has begun her studies at Duke University this fall with a full scholarship. Her journey to higher education was supported by Georgia Possible, a program developed by the University of Georgia in partnership with the Clarke County School District. The program aims to help high school students achieve academic success and explore postsecondary education and career options.
As a freshman, Rodriguez-Hernandez joined Georgia Possible, which is facilitated by faculty at the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development, a unit of UGA Public Service and Outreach. She credits the program with helping her learn about local educational resources, community support, and potential career paths.
“Being a part of this program was very beneficial to me because I learned more about the local school system, what resources are available for me in the community and potential careers,” Rodriguez-Hernandez said.
She will be the first in her family to pursue a four-year college degree. Through Georgia Possible, she and her family gained a better understanding of the college admissions process. She also involved her younger sibling in college visits to encourage an interest in higher education.
“I hoped that bringing him with me would spark an interest in him to pursue a postsecondary education as well,” Rodriguez-Hernandez said.
Established in 2018 with support from the UGA Office of the President, Georgia Possible offers students and their families guidance on postsecondary education, leadership development, and mentoring. The program introduces participants to a range of career paths and provides tools for future planning. Students participate in activities such as equine-assisted leadership development sessions and field trips, including an upcoming visit to the UGA Marine Education Center and Aquarium on Skidaway Island, funded by the Bobbi Meeler Sahm Service and Outreach Award.
Georgia Possible’s support helped Rodriguez-Hernandez apply for a major scholarship that required essays, college research, teacher recommendations, and several review stages.
“During her years spent in Georgia Possible, Genesis embraced every opportunity to grow as a leader. She shifted from quietly leading to confidently sharing her voice and engaging with peers during activities that expanded her leadership skills and perspectives. Her journey reflects the heart of this program — developing the confidence, curiosity and character to succeed with dignity and purpose beyond high school,” said Jason Estep, public service associate in the J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.
Reflecting on her experience, Rodriguez-Hernandez noted how she learned to adapt beyond her comfort zone.
“I used to think I could only stay within my comfort zone because that is where I performed best,” she said. “However, through Georgia Possible, I realized that the more I branched out, more and more opportunities were presented to me. At the end of the day, going for it is better than doing nothing at all.”
This mindset influenced her approach to applying for the QuestBridge scholarship.
“When I was applying for the QuestBridge scholarship, they gave applicants the option to submit a video to the admissions team as a way for them to find out more about us outside of our academics. I almost submitted the application without it because I was afraid of messing up, but after some consideration, I decided to do it anyway,” she said.
Rodriguez-Hernandez is now on a pre-med track at Duke University and considering a minor in music with hopes of joining their symphony orchestra.
“I want to become a pediatric dermatologist so I can help people the way I needed when I was growing up.”
