Rodrigo is a 25-year-old young man who is currently completing his year of social service in medical school, the final step before graduating. Since 2018, he has been part of the Father Wasson Community Scholarships Program at Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH) El Salvador, a key opportunity on his path toward his professional goal.
Overcoming Financial Challenges in Higher Education
His journey has not been easy. During his first year of university, his family faced financial difficulties that jeopardized his academic continuity. “Those were tough times; I did not always have enough money to buy my books or other study materials. At times, I doubted whether I should continue studying or dedicate myself to other things. But ever since NPH stepped in to help, everything has been different,” he recalls.
The dream of becoming a doctor began in his childhood, specifically following a family experience that left a lasting impression on him. When his grandfather fell ill, Rodrigo stayed by his side and tried to understand his condition, but he could not get any answers about what was happening. “I asked the doctors treating him for information, but they did not address my concerns. That sparked my desire to change things and provide timely care to everyone around me.”
How a Scholarship Changed His Life
That is why receiving a college scholarship from NPH was a turning point. “It opened the doors for me to achieve my greatest goal and fulfill my dream. I had the opportunity to demonstrate my capabilities and make my family proud,” he affirms.
Likewise, the organization’s comprehensive support was essential: “I could not have done this without NPH’s support; at every step of the way, they provided assistance and took a genuine interest in understanding my needs. The staff was always very attentive to me, offering advice, guidance, and encouragement whenever I doubted my own abilities.”
Throughout his education, Rodrigo faced extremely demanding moments—marked by long study sessions and sleepless nights—that tested his perseverance and dedication. However, he found strength through his faith, his family, and the unwavering support of NPH. “They never left me alone. Driven by the hope of becoming what I once dreamed of, I always managed to summon the energy to keep going,” says the young man.
From Medical Training to Community Impact
Beyond the challenges, his career has taught him important lessons and instilled values such as compassion, humility, service, and responsibility: “I have learned to be more empathetic. And seeing people’s grateful smiles makes all the effort worthwhile.”
Today, Rodrigo is completing his year of social service in a small town in the city of Sonsonate, where he provides primary care to children, pregnant women, the elderly, and the general population. What initially felt like an uncertain challenge—putting everything he had learned into practice—evolved into a deeply gratifying experience that reaffirmed his dream of providing adequate and dignified care to those who need it most.
Direct contact with communities has also brought him closer to the reality that many people face, and to their need to be heard, to be able to express themselves, and to voice their struggles. “A large part of the population still live in inadequate conditions, which makes it very difficult for them to maintain their physical and psychological well-being.”
For this reason, his vocation remains as steadfast today as it was on day one: “From the moment I decided to study medicine—inspired by my grandfather—I have never lost sight of my goal to provide proper care with empathy, kindness, respect, and honesty. I will always prioritize the patient’s well-being above all else.”
Looking Ahead: Giving Back Through Medicine
Now, Rodrigo is drawing ever closer to fulfilling that dream. Reaching this professional milestone represents not only a personal achievement but also the satisfaction of repaying his family’s efforts and the support NPH has provided throughout all these years. “I was able to prove to myself what I am capable of—the strength I possess, my ability to find solutions, and, above all, my refusal to ever give up in the face of adversity.”
Looking ahead, his next goal is to specialize in surgery, with a subspecialty in Orthopedics and Traumatology. He also dreams of opening a clinic that provides free consultations to the public, as a way of giving back for what he received during his training.
In particular, he would like to directly support the NPH community through medical care, reaffirming his commitment to those who have been part of his journey: “I will always be willing to contribute to my NPH family, who stood by me during these years and never left me alone.”
All of this would also not be possible without the benefactors of Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos, who contribute generously to promoting education as well as youth and economic empowerment.
He also shares a message for other young people: “To those who wish to get ahead, I urge you never to give up. Even if you face many difficulties or obstacles, you are the ones who set your own limits. You decide who you want to be in this life; it all depends on your effort.”
In El Salvador, hundreds of young people aspire to a better future through higher education. However, social and economic inequality prevent this dream from becoming a reality for everyone. Help us be part of the change and create development opportunities for the country’s youth. Join us with your donation.
