Alumni Spotlight: Jennifer Perez '17

When Jennifer Perez graduated from high school, she didn’t have a clear roadmap for college. The youngest of four and the first in her family to pursue a degree, Jennifer made a practical choice: stay close to home, save money, and start her studies at Wenatchee Valley College. “I was working three part-time jobs at one point, but WVC was affordable and worth it,” she recalls.

It didn’t take long for Jennifer to make WVC her second home. As Co-Chair of MEChA (Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán, which translates roughly to "Chicano Student Movement of Aztlán), she immersed herself into campus life and community service. One standout memory for Jennifer was a cold December night spent collecting donations outside Walmart for the Salvation Army. “We filled two cars with blankets, gloves, hats, and food,” she said. “Despite the sleep deprivation, the feeling of giving back was unmatched.”

Fast forward to today, and Jennifer is still making an impact, right where it all began. Now a Credit Evaluator at WVC and the advisor for MEChA, she’s helping students navigate their own paths. She’s also completing her bachelor’s degree in human resource management, raising her two children, and serving on the Mariachi Northwest Festival committee. “WVC was where I learned to value education and build lasting connections. I want to pass that on,” she said.

One pivotal WVC program for Jennifer was CAMP (College Assistance Migrant Program). The workshops and mentorship she received didn’t just prepare her for school, they prepared her for life. “They taught me how to network, create a resume, and present myself professionally,” she shared. “Even 10 years later, I still carry those lessons and stay connected with my CAMP mentors.”

Jennifer’s advice to current students is simple but powerful: immerse yourself in the college experience and build relationships. “Be involved and meet people. Making connections with the professors and staff really makes a difference.”