We recently caught up with Magda Rodriguez ‘02. Read on to learn about what she’s been up to lately!
What are you up to these days?
I am a mom to two amazing children, Benjamin (8) and Olivia (4), and together with my husband, Jason, we live near campus. I am also a healthcare attorney, focusing on representing health systems, practitioners, and other providers in various capacities including, litigation, transactions and regulatory guidance. I recently joined Day Pitney, LLP as a healthcare partner, teaming up to assist in the expansion of its healthcare practice in Florida.
What do you like about the work you are doing now? Describe your career path.
I have always been interested in medicine, and from an early age, I thought I would be a doctor. During college, however, I took a course that focused on health, specifically mental health and the law. This class forever changed my perspective, and ultimately landed me in law school. Following law school, I worked as a legal intern at a Fortune 100 healthcare organization, solidifying my career path as a healthcare attorney. Since then, I’ve worked at a few law firms in Miami as a healthcare attorney – most recently transitioning to Day Pitney.
I love that I was able to meld two careers that I admire. The healthcare industry is unique in that, while heavily regulated, it continues to expand and transform. The ever-evolving growth brings new challenges and makes my job interesting and busy.
Is there anything you learned during your time at Gulliver Prep that you feel was helpful in your life after Gulliver?
First and foremost, I have to credit Gulliver with lifelong friendships, some of which have been my support system throughout my life. As a matter of fact, I recently celebrated my birthday and the majority of the people I celebrated with were my lifelong friends from Gulliver. Another thing Gulliver instilled in me is the importance of giving back through community service. In 2008, together with several other Gulliver alumni, we founded the Miami chapter of Friends of St. Jude to raise much needed funds that benefitted St. Jude Children’s Hospital’s patients and families. While we passed the baton on that project to a younger generation, I still make sure to stay active in the community and give back.
Are there any Gulliver teachers or coaches you credit as having positively influenced you?
Are there any Gulliver teachers or coaches you credit as having positively influenced you? I started Gulliver in pre-kindergarten, so to highlight only a few would be impossible. I would credit the entire English department with cultivating my love for writing and critical thinking.
What is one of your favorite memories from your time at Gulliver Prep?
Spirit week and our senior skit, modeled after SNL, is absolutely at the top of that list. The fact that our teachers and administrators laughed at our impersonations of them shows the unity of the school and the camaraderie of the staff and students.
What has been one of your proudest moments?
Certainly, becoming a mother is among my proudest moments.
As a Gulliver Prep alum, what advice would you give to current students?
Take advantage of the ever broadening classes, activities, and extracurriculars that Gulliver has to offer. You never know what you will receive from them. For example, I was a terrible dancer, but dance class with Ms. Gerri helped build my confidence. Also, you’ll remember these years for the rest of your life so savor them.
Raider Rapid Fire!
Favorite quote: “The power of your words increases in direct proportion to the silence that you keep.” – Swami Muktananda. I know it’s hard to believe a lawyer would stay silent.
Last movie you watched and loved: I have no idea. I have no control over my television.
A food, restaurant or meal that you’re always in the mood for: Sushi from Matsuri
