Jazlee Rojas: Passion on the Field, in the Classroom, and Beyond

MEET Jazlee M. Rojas ‘23

Coming from Smyrna, Delaware, Jazlee Rojas initially chose Goldey-Beacom College because of its low tuition and proximity to home.

But how does one make a final decision? Rojas thought, “What better way than taking an overnight tour?” She was soon in touch with the College and accepted an invitation from softball Coach Juli Greep. When this outgoing young woman with an energetic smile arrived on campus, she checked out the school’s vibe, asked tons of questions and walked around the campus.

As a potential student-athlete for the Softball team, as soon as she set foot on the softball field, it started to feel like home. She got together with the girls on the team and watched them practice. Three years later, she hasn’t looked back.

Rojas simply felt the small campus was a better fit as opposed to becoming just a number at a large university. “I want to be somebody,” she said. “I want to be a leader. I want to be involved in organizations and campus life.”

When you talk to Rojas face to face, her caring spirit and excitement shine through. “I’m in my third year as an RA (Resident Assistant), and next fall, I’ll be a senior RA,” she said. “I’m also the new president of the GBC Beta Chapter of Rho Alpha Sigma Omega, an honor society for RAs. And I’m the president of the GBC Chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants. I’m ready to watch that organization grow and uplift minorities and people of color.”

Rojas is as passionate about academics and her career as she is about softball. “I really love the Softball team,” she said “My main goal is to become a certified public accountant and work in a big city, maybe Philly or New York. I just love being out there and having fun things to do.” She plans to graduate in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Practically speaking, Rojas said she needs 150 credits to sit for the CPA exam, so she is contemplating either a master’s degree or perhaps an MBA with extra classes to reach 150 credits. Fortunately, she has plenty of time.

“I have really good time management skills, and I keep an agenda that’s really up to date,” Rojas shared. “And I use different colors and different pages to write everything down. But I think time management and the support from Goldey are a big help. Everyone has each other’s backs.”

It’s not easy to take on a heavy academic schedule as well as a demanding sports schedule, but GBC staff and faculty have a strong reputation for helping students with anything they need – from food and shelter to a listening ear and a warm heart.

Anyone can reach a point of feeling overwhelmed, and Rojas was no exception. On the outside, everyone sees the smile, but on the inside – no one sees the tears “am I good enough?” the fear “will they take me seriously when they see I’m Hispanic?”

“Just being a Hispanic Latina minority, I feel like we have to work super hard just to be accepted or approved by society,” Rojas revealed and continued, “I just want to prove myself to everyone. I want them to think, “She was able to tackle so much and graduate with a smile on her face.”

Everyone hits a rough patch, but for Rojas, she needed the care and support of the College community. “I went through a tough time, mentally, just being overwhelmed with everything that I took on,” she said.

So, Rojas reached out, and the humanity of the GBC community reached back. From her advisor, Deb Harbaugh, to her softball coach, Juli Greep, the staff in Residence Life and her professors. “Associate Professor Kevin Hunt (recently promoted to director of academic support services) has always been there for me; Jocelyn Moses in Student Affairs has been like a mother figure for me; and Bernadine Griffin has helped me every step of the way,” she said. They gave support and encouragement to help her get back to the Jazlee everyone knows and loves. And she came back – stronger than ever.

Rojas will tell you how thankful she is for the Mental Health and Wellness Center. “It’s great how supportive everyone is,” she said. “Megan comes in with open arms, and I love her so much,” she said. “She’s been a huge part of bettering my mental health.”

With graduation and career goals in mind, Rojas talked about the support she has received from Career Services for the last several years and said, “Beth Kirker – she’s been helping me build my resume since my freshman year. That’s why it looks so great – because of her.” She also credits them for getting her foot in the door at WSFS Bank for her first internship.

Rojas is a powerhouse in time management and takes on a lot of responsibilities. “Knowing that I can take on different responsibilities and still have a social life, be a girlfriend, a friend, a daughter and an athlete, and still have a great experience means a lot to me,” she said. “I want to finish strong. I know that people have my back – Goldey-Beacom is a great support system, and I’m deeply grateful to the staff, faculty and my peers for being my support system.”

While her GBC family is important, when you get to know her, you learn more about her love and devotion to her family at home – her brother, sister and parents. Being the oldest brings a responsibility to lead by example for the younger ones. And that’s the feeling Rojas carries with her as the oldest of three, all of whom are seven years apart.

“My little sister looks up to me,” said Rojas. It was never so evident as when Rojas spoke at the College’s Rho Alpha Sigma Beta Omega induction ceremony. “As my family came to the stage to see me,” she continued, “my little sister, Jaylee, was crying.” Overwhelmed with awe and admiration, Jaylee said, “I’m so proud of you. I could never speak in front of people, but I want to be just like you.”

As the tears streamed down Rojas’ face, she said, “When you grow up, you’re going to do this too – you got this.’’

Words aren’t powerful enough for the love Rojas has for her brother and sister. She said, “I just want to be there for them, and be a good example. That’s why I try to be the best that I can – because of them.”

One thing is certain, when you meet this dynamic young woman, it’s clear that she brings the strength, energy and passion to achieve her goals and live out her dreams.

This article was previously featured in The Goldey-Beacom College Magazine