For Corona High School senior and 2025-26 Student Board Member Natalie Rodriguez, leadership didn’t always come naturally. In fact, she describes her younger self as shy and reserved, someone who preferred to stay behind the scenes. But through years of involvement in school activities, supportive teachers, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone, she has grown into a confident student leader representing her peers at the district level.
Having attended Corona-Norco Unified schools her entire life, Natalie has been connected to the district community from an early age. Her journey into leadership began in elementary school when she joined student council in sixth grade, an experience that helped her slowly step out of her comfort zone.
“It helped me get out of my bubble,” she said. “Before that, I was always very shy.”
While she initially shied away from joining activities during her freshmen year, everything changed the following year.
“I did a complete 180,” she said.
As a sophomore, she began getting involved in multiple programs and leadership opportunities across campus, including Associated Student Body (ASB), Upward Bound, BioMed (STEM), and several clubs. She quickly discovered a passion for connecting with students and building community, not just at Corona High, but across the entire district.
She regularly attends events across other campuses, including football games, performances, and competitions.
“I enjoy going to different schools and seeing what their culture is like,” she said. “It’s really cool to be around students from all campuses who all have different journeys.”
Her dedication to student leadership eventually led to her being elected ASB President at Corona High School, a role that also placed her in the rotation to serve as the CNUSD Student Board Member this school year.
“My experience has been pretty amazing so far,” she said. “I’ve loved every step of the way.”
Before stepping into the role, she shadowed the previous student board member to learn what the experience would be like. Although she was nervous at first, the opportunity helped her feel prepared.
One moment that surprised her most was how many students began recognizing her around campus.
“At first it felt a little weird,” she said. “But people would come up to me and say I looked awesome sitting with the Board. Those are really good moments.”
In addition to participating in Board meetings, she connects with other student leaders throughout the district, including meeting with fellow ASB presidents and participating in the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council, where students from across CNUSD share ideas and perspectives.
Throughout her journey, she credits many teachers and mentors who helped encourage her growth and recognize her potential along the way.
Among them was science teacher Ms. Porter, who recommended her for the biomedical science pathway and encouraged her to embrace new challenges.
“She told me, ‘I know you can do big things,’” she recalled.
Since joining Upward Bound in her sophomore year, she has nurtured her goal of attending a California State University or University of California campus while developing the skills needed to become college-bound. The program has supported her through the college application process and academic planning, particularly during her junior year. She credits her Upward Bound coordinators, Mr. Nick and Ms. Maryam for their guidance and support in her success.
Other educators including Mrs. Valencia and Mrs. Schultz have also played an important role in supporting her along the way.
“It wasn’t just one person,” she said. “Over the years, there has always been a teacher who supported me.”
Their encouragement has helped shape her confidence, leadership skills, and desire to serve others.
As a first-generation college student, she hopes to attend a California State University or University of California campus, with interests in communications or sociology. She plans to pursue a career focused on service and helping others.
Experiences like attending the Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Conference at UC Riverside have helped inspire her aspirations.
“Seeing people in college with similar backgrounds as me gives me a lot of hope,” she said.
Her family has also been a constant source of encouragement throughout her journey. When she received her college acceptance letters, including offers from Cal State Fullerton, Long Beach, and Chico, her parents proudly shared the news with their extended family.
“They may not always know the specifics of how to support me,” she said, “but they support everything I do.”
Her family proudly displays the plaque from when she was sworn in as Student Board Member in their living room.
“They were so excited,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, she says these experiences have helped her grow not only as a leader but also as a teammate.
“I’ve learned how to delegate and work with others,” she said. “I know I still have a lot of growth ahead of me, but I’ve gained so much confidence.”
For students who may be hesitant to step outside their comfort zone, she offers simple advice:
“Just go for it. Put yourself out there,” she said. “Keep showing up for yourself and nurture what’s inside of you. Live your dream, even if it sounds cliché. It’s worth it.”