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2022 class valedictorian, Migdaliz enrolled in the Health Information Technology program at Malcolm X College and was the first in her family to earn her associate degree.
"Amazingly enough, this journey that you’re going through right now, or this struggle that you’re going through right now, is actually what’s going to push you to become something better"
Migdaliz Perez began her journey at Malcolm X College many years ago when she graduated from high school. After one semester, she left to take what she thought would be a short break working full-time. That short break turned into thirteen years, but when her father became ill, she made the decision to quit her job to care for him full time.
That experience gave Migdaliz the chance to reflect on her academic and career goals. She was called back to Malcolm X College with a strong desire to help others like she had helped her father.
Migdaliz enrolled in the Health Information Technology program there and was the first in her family to earn her associate degree. She was recognized for her commitment and perseverance, and Malcolm X College selected Migdaliz as the college’s 2022 class valedictorian. She is currently preparing for the Registered Health Information Technician exam and hopes to earn her bachelor’s degree and land a job in a hospital so she can continue making a difference.
Migdaliz wants others to know that everyone struggles sometimes, and that it is possible to come out stronger on the other side. “Amazingly enough, this journey that you’re going through right now, or this struggle that you’re going through right now, is actually what’s going to push you to become something better,” she said.
As she works towards earning her Associate Degree in Nursing—and later, a bachelor's degree—Quintae Dorsey knows her military background will make her a better nurse.
Malcolm X College’s John Kelly is a “voice for veterans.” As the college’s Veterans Services Specialist and a former U.S. Marine, Kelly uses his own experiences to provide military-affiliated students with the resources they need to succeed—both in the classroom and in their lives.
