Texas Tech University

Staff Spotlight Linda Rodriguez

TTU chemistry staffer Linda Rodriguez

Full Name:

Linda Rodriguez.

Official Title:

Unit Manager, Chemistry.

How long have you worked at Texas Tech?

13 years.

When did you join the College of Arts & Sciences?

2010.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I read one time that we all just go through life solving one problem after another, so it's up to you to find a place where you solve problems you enjoy. I will have to say I found my people. So many different things come at me on a daily basis in Chemistry, and I can't help but admit I find most of them fun to solve!  

What is your favorite hobby or pastime?  

That's easy, I love road trips. I love to see the land. My second favorite subject in college was the sciences but most specifically geology. So many details. So many layers. So many years of change. We went to Zion in Utah last summer and it was breathtaking. We are going to California this year, and I plan on going full nerd. 

What is your favorite memory of working for the College of Arts & Sciences?  

The relationship that I have with now 98 year old, first-ever Distinguished Horn Professor Dr. Henry Shine. We met when he was a spry 87 and we have spent countless hours together working on his history of the department. He was born in 1923 (same year as the university) and he started at Texas Tech in 1954, before my parents were even an idea. I cherish every second talking to him and absorbing his wisdom.  

What is something that people would be surprised to learn about you?

I love hip hop music. My favorite group is Outkast and my favorite artist is clearly Andre 3000. There is no better lyricist. Living in Atlanta for four years surrounded by such talent was a great period in my life. I will take exit as Andre would: “The South got something to say.”