Hispanic Heritage Month with Alex Rodriguez: Community Loan Originator at Amplify CU

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage month with us! We asked our Hispanic and Latino team members to reflect on their careers, accomplishments, and what Hispanic Heritage month means to them. Throughout September and October, we’ll be highlighting their answers on our blog and social media channels.

Alex Rodriguez has been with Amplify for over 13 years. From originating loans to supervising other loan agents, Alex has a wealth of experience in the mortgage industry. He is currently a Community Loan Originator, building relationships with nonprofit housing groups, state and local housing offices, and community-based affordable housing organizations to create mortgage opportunities for underserved communities.

An active member of his community, Alex and his family live in Austin: “From PTA meetings to volunteer events, parenthood is a welcomed reminder of the points of intersection we hold with others in our community.” He aspires to give the best of himself, especially to those in need of a helping hand, while teaching his children how to build sustainable community connections.

We asked Alex some questions surrounding his career and his thoughts on Hispanic Heritage Month.

Why did you choose your profession, and what do you love most about what you do?

As a first-generation Mexican-American who works in the real estate industry, I am reminded every day of the importance of homeownership. Homeownership means security, a sense of belonging, and – perhaps most important – a path to financial security for your family.

“I am reminded every day of the importance of homeownership”

As a Latino, I know that it can be especially difficult for Latino families to discuss homeownership and to be vulnerable when it comes to seeking financial help. That’s why I feel so motivated, in both my personal and professional capacity, to educate young adults about the role homeownership plays in creating intergenerational wealth. It will take some time and hard work to be able to prepare yourself for homeownership, but it still remains the biggest path to long-term success.

What’s your favorite Mexican restaurant in Austin?

One of my favorite restaurants in the Buda/Kyle is Casa Maria’s. They have some of the delicious traditional Mexican meals such as mole, chile relleno, and chilaquiles. They also have a wonderful bakery, great spread of pan dulce.

Tell us about someone Hispanic you look up to and why. Do you have a mentor? Jaime Escalante is someone I look up to as a Latino, a teacher that finds passion in the subject he teaches. He not only has taught me to always innovate what you are teaching—constantly. Also that mistakes and frustration are always welcome, but don’t lose your cool. He’s famous for saying “Ganas is all you need”. Also, I cannot forget “magic fingers”, a tool used to multiply by 9.

What do you wish you could tell your younger self?

Se necesitan ganas! It doesn’t translate exactly, but it’s about having desire, not giving up easily, and always trying—mistakes are just a part of your journey to success. I think that’s what I would tell my young self or any other Latino who is learning and finding themselves.

What is the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Homeownership can be intimidating for some, and at times it feels unreachable. I always think about my parents’ journey when coming to this great country: their struggles and hard work for a better life while not having much—no generational-wealth. They lived paycheck to paycheck to support and provide for us, but owning a home was important to them, to teach us that we belong.

In this role you learn so much and you realize that no one has the exact same journey, but the approach of empathy, understanding, and a willingness to share with others will make you successful.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

Hispanic heritage month means a celebration! From our independence to the accomplishments we have as Latinos. Pride that as a unified group, from different Latin-American countries, our culture is expressed and our determination for success is strong.

Supporting Our Team

Join us over the next few weeks as we continue to celebrate and highlight more of our team members. We invite you to listen, share, and support them!