From South Texas to Hollywood: Valente Rodriguez Visits STISD World Scholars Theatre Arts

Students in the Theatre Arts program at STISD World Scholars (World Scholars) had a unique opportunity to learn directly from a professional actor whose journey from South Texas to Hollywood began not far from where they are today.

Valente Rodriguez, a South Texas native and accomplished film, television and theatre actor, visited the World Scholars campus to connect with Theatre Arts students and share insight from his decades-long career in the performing arts. During his visit, Rodriguez talked with students about his experiences as an actor, answered their questions and worked with them through acting exercises.

For students considering a future in theatre or the performing arts, opportunities like this provide a valuable perspective that can be difficult to gain inside a traditional classroom. Hearing directly from someone who has navigated the challenges, opportunities and realities of a professional acting career gave students the chance to ask questions, learn from real-world experience and gain a better understanding of what it takes to pursue the craft beyond high school.

Rodriguez’s own journey is particularly meaningful for South Texas students. Born and raised in Edcouch, he attended the University of Texas–Pan American and worked his way through college by performing in children’s theatre throughout the region. After graduating in 1987, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. Since then, Rodriguez has built an extensive career spanning film, television and theatre. His film credits include Blood In Blood Out, Mi Familia, Erin Brockovich, The Ugly Truth, It's Complicated and McFarland, USA. He has also appeared in television series including The Golden Girls, Mad About You, ER and Yes, Dear. Rodriguez is perhaps best known for his role as Ernie Cardenas, George Lopez’s best friend and co-worker, on the ABC sitcom George Lopez, which ran from 2002 to 2007. He later starred as Cesar on TV Land’s Happily Divorced.

Through conversation, questions and hands-on acting exercises, our World Scholars students gained a closer look at the work behind a career in the performing arts while learning from someone who has experienced that journey firsthand.

World Scholars is grateful to Rodriguez for sharing his time, experience and expertise with its Theatre Arts students and for investing in students who are exploring their own paths in the performing arts.