Ashley Perez

Pronouns: 

She/her/ella

Major: 

Business Administration

Hometown: 

Vallejo, CA

What are your campus involvements? 

President, Treasurer, and Public Relations of Sigma Omega Nu, and Caterer for University Culinary Services.

What is your favorite memory or experience at SSU? 

My favorite memory would have to be participating in Big Nite for the first time with my organization. The energy, the excitement, and the chance to meet new people made me realize how welcoming the SSU community is by finding comfortable spaces on campus. Also, creating a family through my campus job has been an amazing experience, due to them becoming like a family.  They were always supportive, encouraging, and ready to make even the busiest days enjoyable.

What has been the most challenging part of your college experience and what did you learn from it? 

The most challenging part of my college experience has been finding balance as a transfer, commuting, and first-generation student. Everyone around me already seemed to have their place, friends, routines, and a sense of belonging. Due to commuting, I couldn’t always stay late for events or study groups, and there were days when I felt disconnected from campus life. Being a first-generation student made things even harder. My family supports me deeply, but they don’t always understand the challenges that come with college life- the deadlines, financial pressures, or self-doubt that sometimes creeps in. There were moments when I questioned if I was capable of keeping up.
However,  I was given the sense of belonging I had been searching for and experienced more Associated Students (AS) events. Those experiences helped me connect with more people, feel part of the community, and see how much effort goes into creating a supportive environment for students.

What brought you to SSU, and what motivates you to stay? 

The beautiful, nature-filled campus and the welcoming environment that encourages students to express their talents. I was drawn to how supportive SSU is toward first-generation students and how many opportunities there are to get involved and grow.
What motivates me to stay is the community and sisterhood I’ve found here, and the journey of finding myself along the way. By being able to have the space to express myself and grow as a person. 

Who at SSU has influenced you and/or made an impact on your journey here? 

My Sigma Omega Nu sisters became like family, providing support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that made campus feel like home. My coworkers also became close friends, creating a supportive and encouraging environment, and the Culinary Services team guided and inspired me through their mentorship and teamwork. My professors, Mona Sabuco and Karen Thompson, taught the Gateway to Professional Success (GPS) program and guided me academically and personally. Their mentorship through the program has helped me clarify my goals, build confidence, and develop skills that will support my future success. Lastly, Abbie Page has also been incredibly supportive in my role with SON, helping me grow as a leader and providing guidance that has strengthened both my personal and organizational growth.