Karina Perez

Administrative Coordinator II

As a previous educator, she found herself telling her students that they need to dream big and work hard to achieve those dreams. It was easy to say those words, but following through was something she needed to do herself. She decided to show them what it meant to change a career, leaving a practice that was so rewarding, all to demonstrate to them—and to herself—what it truly means to pursue one's goals and dreams.

Her lifelong goal has always been to complete her education and grow in her profession. She is the first in her family to finish college and receive a Bachelor's degree. She has witnessed the struggles of hard labor and the sacrifices her family has made to help her accomplish her own aspirations. For her, it is essential to continue making them proud and finding ways to give back to them. She is now aiming to pursue her Master's degree in Business Administration in the near future.

A Conversation with Karina

What is something you enjoy about working at A&M-Commerce? Why? 

One thing that I have enjoyed about working at Commerce is definitely the people. I work with some amazing, inspiring, and most of all hard working individuals that are all geared towards student success. I have really enjoyed learning from all those that I have encountered at A&M, from the students, to admins, to directors, VPs and even the President. You can expect everyone to be welcoming  in this Lion family.

Tell us about an accomplishment you are proud of.

I am very proud to have had a very successful career as a teacher. I taught to difficult subjects while employed as a 6^th grade teacher. Yet, I perused the end goal being did you grow verses did you pass the test. I had more students come to me at the beginning of the year saying, “I am going to hate your class because this is my worst subject.” By the end of the year, “they would say you made me learn and made it fun.” My favorite parent contact was one a prior student decided on their own to read a book during a blackout at their house. Mom couldn't believe that he was in his room with a flashlight reading. She texted me right away.

Education

• B.A., Learning & Technology, Texas A&M University-Commerce

Professional Experience

• Worked in education for 10 years (5 as an educational aide & secretary and 5 as an educator).
• Many years of experience as an administrative assistant in various different organizations.