Q&A with Arnie Rodriguez

Musical Theater alumnus Arnie Rodriguez (B.F.A. '16) answers questions about his Conservatory experience and his favorite Boston activities.

Who inspires you?

My mother and my sister are my inspirations in life. They are both incredibly strong, hard-working people and honestly the most courageous women I have ever seen. I aspire to be like them one day.

Do you have a favorite quote?

“When life shuts a door... Open it again. It’s a door. That’s how they work.”

What has been your favorite class at the Conservatory?

My favorite class would have to be Voice and Speech in my senior year. That class and teacher, Joy Lamberton-Arcolano, have changed my entire life.

What is your favorite thing to do in Boston?

I absolutely love going to Havana Club for their Saturday night salsa/bachata dance nights.

What do you think is the most exciting thing about the merger with Berklee?

The fact that two major worlds are colliding! It’s like this super, artistic baby is being born.

What is one collaboration experience that you have had at the Conservatory that was unexpected?

At first, I never thought I would interact with any of the composition students; however, one of the first people I met was a composition major, and he became not only my accompanist for voice lessons, but also my roommate and one of my closest friends.

Where would you go in a time machine?

I would go back in time to meet the younger version of my grandparents on both sides of my family. I think it would be so cool to see what they looked like and how life was for them when they were younger.

What advice would you give a prospective student?

Try and visit as many schools as possible. Trust me, you’ll know when you feel at home.

What do you think you will miss after graduation?

The luxury of a student schedule where everything is planned for you and you always have something to do.