We previously spoke to Jessica and you can read that previous update here. Since then, Jessica has graduated from FIU. Here is her story.
Hello Gladiators!
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re sitting in one of the desks that I sat in just a couple years ago. My name is Jessica Perez and I was a part of the inaugural class of 2011 at Hialeah Gardens High School. You might even see my picture hanging on the wall. This school holds a very special place in my heart because of the many activities that I was a part of and the friendships that I made, but most importantly because of the teachers, administration and staff that pushed be beyond my limits! So if you’re currently stressed out and overwhelmed because you’re in 5 clubs and are taking too many AP or AICE classes, you’re on the right path. Don’t give up! Those tough classes and activities you are a part of are the ones that are going to prepare you for your future. They are currently teaching you how to manage your time, how to work with others, how to study, and how to succeed!
After graduating from Hialeah Gardens High School, I attended the Honors College at Miami Dade College where I obtained an Associates of Arts Degree for FREE (yes, I said FREE!). The Honors College paid for my tuition and books while also providing a stipend (free money for maintaining at least a 3.5 GPA each semester). I actually made money going to school! From there, I transferred to the Honors College at Florida International University (FIU) to pursue my Bachelors Degree in Psychology on a full paid academic scholarship that covered the final two years of my undergraduate education. While at FIU, I was a research assistant at the Child Anxiety and Phobia Program (CAPP) from the moment I set foot on campus. While volunteering at CAPP, I began by merely stamping data to make sure it was complete. By my second semester, I had done such a great job and had learned so much, that I was calling families to schedule their appointments and shortly after was conducting my very own treatment sessions with children who struggle with anxiety. Not only was I a part of CAPP, but I was also a vocalist for the Honors College a cappella group known as HEARTbeats (Feel free to check us out: http://news.fiu.edu/2015/03/a-cappella-group-builds-community-within-honors-college/86503
). I was also a member of the Psychology International Honor Society (Psi Chi) as well as a tutor for elementary school aged children. Although I was involved in several activities while taking 15 credits per semester, I managed my time wisely so I wouldn’t burn my self out (time management is key!).
*If you’ve never had a planner or a calendar, it’s time to start investing in one!
As of May 5, 2015, I graduated from FIU with my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and will be attending Graduate School at FIU this Fall, specializing in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My goal is to be able to continue to assist those who are distressed and overwhelmed by anxiety on a daily basis. I also plan to return to CAPP to complete my practicum hours to obtain my license to practice counseling. With this license, I could open up my own practice, work at a school or in a hospital, providing evidence based treatment to children or adults.
Long story short, I am extremely grateful to HGHS for the recommendations and the help that was provided to me. Take advantage of your opportunities because they are right at your fingertips. Sacrifice a minute of your time to visit your CAP advisor, Mrs. Abesada or talk to your teachers. They were in your shoes once too (and trust me, they know what they’re talking about). I have two degrees and didn’t have to pay a penny thanks to some of the advice that was given to me! Now, all of the money that I saved, will help me pay for graduate school. Although it would’ve been cool to go away for college, I don’t regret staying in Miami one bit! I’ve networked with some awesome professors, made lifelong friends and saved a whole lot of money. Meanwhile, I'm still pursuing my dream! You can do the same!
I wish you all many blessings and hope that you can achieve your goals! Have faith that you can do it and you will! Go Gladiators!
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