Skip to main content

SNHU Spotlight: Melinda Rodriguez, AS in Accounting Grad

Melinda Rodriguez, a 2024 SNHU graduate who earned her associate degree in accounting. Melinda Rodriguez ‘24 earned her Associate of Science (AS) in Accounting from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) for three people: her sons.

“I have a 15-year-old boy, a 3-year-old boy and one boy that’s going to be one year old next month,” she said. “And I did this all for them.” Obtaining this degree was important, she said, not only for her own sense of self-esteem but also to show her children they can succeed, too.

Rodriguez was drawn to SNHU for the flexibility it offered. As a working mother, she said the ability to complete her coursework at night was necessary. “It just worked with my life,” said Rodriguez.

Already working in the accounting industry, Rodriguez noted how beneficial her classes were. “It’s what I do in my day-to-day, so it definitely helped me grow in my career path,” she said.

Eventually, Rodriguez said she hopes to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and she'd love to be a controller or senior accountant.

Traveling from Lawrence, Massachusetts, Rodriguez attended the 2024 fall Commencement ceremony to celebrate her achievement. “I’m excited to have a big smile and just show off my degree,” she said.

Reflecting on her journey to that day, Rodriguez said she gave birth to two of her sons and dealt with the COVID pandemic during the course of her associate program. She said she wasn't always confident, but the experience gave her a boost in self-esteem.

“I’m so happy that I kept going and I’m here today,” she said. “It’s 100% worth it.”

A degree can change your life. Choose your program from 200+ SNHU degrees that can take you where you want to go.

Abigayle Mahnken ’22 is an assistant content writer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English and is currently earning a Master of Arts (MA) in English and Creative Writing. Passionate about storytelling and education, she enjoys learning from fellow students' experiences and sharing their stories. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, reading, and learning. She also really likes video games. Connect with her on LinkedIn.

Explore more content like this article

Payton Good, a 2025 SNHU graduate who earned his bachelor's in operations management wearing his cap and gown in front of a yellow background.

SNHU Spotlight: Payton Good, BS in Operations Management Grad

Former military service member Payton Good ’25 has already established his career in the surface mining industry. But now that he’s earned his bachelor’s in operations management with a concentration in project management, he believes his degree will be a “stepping stone” to go even further.
Jolene Stetz studying a textbook with a laptop in front of her.

SNHU Spotlight: Jolene Stetz, BS in Marketing Grad

When Jolene Stetz finished her first class at SNHU with an A, she knew she was finally in the right place, at the right time and surrounded by the right staff, faculty and peers. She felt supported, for possibly the first time, in her pursuit of higher education.
David Wallace, a 2025 SNHU graduate who earned his bachelors in business administration wearing his cap and gown in front of a yellow background.

SNHU Spotlight: David Wallace, BS in Business Administration Grad

Meet David Wallace ’25. He earned his bachelor’s in business administration at SNHU, fulfilling a promise to his late wife, who encouraged him to finish college. A year and a half after her passing, he crossed the Commencement stage carrying both his diploma and her memory.

About Southern New Hampshire University

Two students walking in front of Monadnock Hall

SNHU is a nonprofit, accredited university with a mission to make high-quality education more accessible and affordable for everyone.

Founded in 1932, and online since 1995, we’ve helped countless students reach their goals with flexible, career-focused programs. Our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH is home to over 3,000 students, and we serve over 135,000 students online. Visit our about SNHU page to learn more about our mission, accreditations, leadership team, national recognitions and awards.