My Story
I was born in San Jose, California and moved to New Mexico when I was 8 years old. So, while I’m still a Cali girl at heart, I’m a proud New Mexican, too. After working in Admission at New Mexico Tech for many years, my former University Dean, Amy Boldt, (now Menaul’s Director of Enrollment and Marketing) encouraged me to visit the school. I visited the Menaul campus one afternoon and now I work here… so it’s safe to say I was sold.
The first job I had with an Admission Office was something I saw as a learning experience before moving on to something else. I ended up really loving the whole process and job itself. There is something really special about helping a student or family find a place where they feel they can thrive. And where they can confidently say “this is my place, this is where I’m supposed to be.”
In my free time I enjoy hanging out with friends, going to the movies, and pretty much dominating any trivia game. I’m passionate about photography, so I enjoy getting out and going on photo adventures.
My Mentors
Fortunately, I have many mentors in my life. They range from teachers to co-workers to supervisors. I’m thankful for an amazing group of women, who I am inspired and encouraged by daily. It’s a blessing to have empowered women consistently supporting one another, it makes me proud to know them and to learn from them.
However, the most important and impactful mentor has always and will always be my mother. From my mom I have witnessed what hard work and true strength looks like and I stand in awe of her. She has always reminded me that we can be our own worst critic but if you work hard and put your heart in whatever you are doing, what an accomplishment that is to be proud of!
A mentor once told me, that they wanted to enjoy their job and the people they share their workday with because more often than not, they will see those people more than their own family during the week. I feel this is no different for a student going to school each day. School is their job, so you want them to enjoy their days and the people they share the school day with too. When a family tours campus I want that student to leave excited about the possibilities of our school. Excited about finding a place where acceptance, respect and compassion is abundant. Ready to meet people who will help them grow and will shape the way they see themselves and the world around them.
Why Menaul
Menaul was my choice because I resonated with the core values and purpose of the school. Immediately I liked the overall impression of everyone and the campus itself. I feel like this is where I’m supposed to be.
To a family or student who is considering Menaul, I would say call or email me, let’s schedule a visit! If you are looking for an environment where your student is going to be challenged academically but also walk away with a greater sense of self and purpose, well you are definitely going to want to come visit our school!
Ms. Perez-Gonzalez