For Alexandra Rodriguez, earning her Master of Science in Law (MSL) in Government Law and Policy from McGeorge School of Law wasn’t just a milestone. It was a powerful act of transformation rooted in passion, identity, and a lifelong commitment to justice.
Originally from Killeen, Texas, Alexandra’s path has been far from traditional. After initially enrolling in the San Antonio Police Academy, she pivoted to higher education, ultimately graduating magna cum laude from the University of Texas at San Antonio with a degree in pre-law and departmental honors for her thesis on the housing crisis.
A Strong Sense of Justice
“I’ve always had a strong sense of justice,” Alexandra said. “Growing up Latina in a community where many people–including my own mother–struggled to navigate the legal system, I felt compelled to be the person who stands up for others.”
That same drive led her to law firms, where she gained firsthand experience in legal environments and quickly realized that becoming an attorney wasn’t the right fit. “I worked with some attorneys and thought, maybe I want to get my JD. But the more I saw the day-to-day, the more I knew that wasn’t my path,” she explained. “I didn’t want to practice law. I wanted to apply the law.”
Search For The Right Program
Her search for the right program led her to McGeorge. The online MSL in Government Law and Policy offered her the best of both worlds: legal training without the JD track, and the flexibility to continue working full-time in a demanding field marketing role. “The flexibility at McGeorge was unmatched,” she said. “I was traveling for work constantly–flying to Portland, to LA–but I could calendar everything, plan my weeks, and always stay on track.”
She appreciated the consistent structure of weekly assignments and the outstanding support from professors, even during personal challenges like recovering from a car accident. “The faculty were incredibly understanding. If I needed an extension or had questions, they were right there. It made a huge difference.”
Moments That Stay With You
Even as an online student, Alexandra immersed herself in campus life by visiting McGeorge to use the library, attend events, and connect with the community. “I remember sitting on campus one day just reflecting, and it hit me: as a Latina, being the first woman to graduate with a master’s in her family… That moment really stayed with me.”
Alexandra graduated in December 2024 and is now working as a paralegal while pursuing a career in law enforcement at the federal level. “I thrive when I get to investigate, analyze, and solve problems,” she says. “I want to make a difference–whether that’s for one person or on a larger scale.” She’s also passionate about correcting misconceptions around careers in government or justice without a JD. “There’s this myth that you need a JD to work in government. But if you’re not practicing law, you don’t. The MSL gives you the legal knowledge to contribute meaningfully in government, enforcement, or policy work.”
“McGeorge Helped Me Believe I Could”
When asked to sum up her McGeorge experience in one word, Alexandra didn’t hesitate. “Empowering. The coursework, the support, everything made me feel stronger and more capable. I keep striving for more because McGeorge helped me believe I could.” From defending classmates in school to championing justice in her community, Alexandra Rodriguez is a powerful example of how education, resilience, and purpose can converge to shape a meaningful career and a life of service.