Irene Perales

Never Stop Learning

For Irene Perales, the road to a college degree has been an invigorating and challenging journey.
Perales always knew she wanted a college degree, and this goal galvanized her experience one summer working in the fields of a small west Texas town.  When Perales first tried to pursue this educational goal in her early youth, it became apparent that she lacked the focus and accountability to see it through completion. Then, as the hurdles of raising a family took precedence, her dream of attaining a degree seemed dim. But she never gave up.

In spring 2008, she enrolled at Del Mar College. In fall 2010, she transferred to the Island University to work toward a Bachelor of Applied Science in Community and Mental Health.

“Right now, it’s my time,” said Perales, whose four children range in age from 18 to 25. “I wanted to wait until my children were old enough, now the opportunity has presented itself. I’m older, but appreciate the opportunity more than I ever did before. I never want to stop learning.”

Now a senior, Perales is a McNair Scholar, and was recently awarded the Charley Wootan Scholarship and the South Texas Academic Rising Scholars Scholarship. In September 2011, she presented her research, “Understanding College Students’ Facebook Use: Communication Privacy Management and Relational Satisfaction,” at the 19th Annual McNair Scholars Conference held at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.

“The McNair Program provides the opportunity to prepare for graduate school, network, and present my research,” Perales stated.

For two years, Perales has worked as part-time administrative assistant for the Department of Communication and Theatre. Prior to attending the University, Perales was involved in her community in La Vernia, Texas, where she started a Girls of Grace group that instills self-confidence in girls. She was also instrumental in implementing a School Health Advisory Committee in that local district.

After 2012 graduation, her next educational goal is to earn a master’s in social work. Perales hopes to empower people to make better life choices.