Article by Merrick Chojnacki | Owl Staff
As a multimedia journalism student, Heather Perez worked on a news video about the presidential election that won a national Pinnacle award.
As a mother of six, Heather Perez’s journey through college has been anything but conventional. Over the course of 12 years, she has navigated motherhood, personal loss and the challenges of returning to school, all while working toward a future in nursing.
Now a student at Harford Community College, Perez is pursuing her passion for caring for others while also finding new ways to express herself through writing and her involvement with Owl Media. Perez’s interest in nursing began while she was working in a nursing home.
“Personal responsibilities, unexpected challenges and loss can change the course of a person’s life, but they do not have to mean giving up on long term goals.”
Through that experience, she discovered a desire to provide care, improve the lives of others and make a meaningful difference in her community. Although her educational journey was interrupted by personal challenges, her goal of becoming a nurse remained.
After taking a year and a half break following the passing of her son, Perez returned to college with renewed confidence and determination. Her decision to continue her education reflects her commitment to building a better future for herself and her family.
Writing has also become an important part of Perez’s college experience. She finds that writing gives her a way to express herself, and her articles often focus on children, a subject close to her heart. Through her work, she can share her experiences and offer readers a perspective shaped by her life as a mother.
Heather Perez (second from right) meets with staff members in Owl Media’s production lab.
Growing up without a father, Perez credits her success to the strength and support of her mother. Today, she draws on her own experiences as she raises her five living children, ages 20, 17, 14, seven and four. Alongside her family, she finds companionship in her two dogs, Sasha and Miracle.
Balancing school and family responsibilities requires dedication, but Perez continues to make time for her education and personal goals. Her experiences have helped shape her perspective, influencing both her writing and the way she approaches her future career.
“Perez’s interest in nursing began while she was working in a
nursing home.”
Through her involvement with Owl Media, Perez hopes to “achieve a good grade in her current class while sharing her unique perspective with the world.” Her contributions allow her to connect with others, explore her interest in writing and bring her experiences into the campus community.
Perez’s story is a reminder that education does not always follow a straight path. Personal responsibilities, unexpected challenges and loss can change the course of a person’s life, but they do not have to mean giving up on long term goals.
As she continues working toward a career in nursing, Perez brings with her a wealth of life experience, a commitment to her family and a desire to care for others. Her journey reflects the determination it takes to begin again, keep moving forward and pursue a future built around what matters most.