Austin Community College District (ACC) celebrates more than 3,900 graduates at its fall 2024 commencement ceremony. Friends and family are invited to congratulate students at the H-E-B Center in Cedar Park on Thursday, December 12.
One of those students is Kallie Perez, who is earning her degree in English. The 28-year-old began at ACC in 2014.
Hear more about her journey at ACC.
Why did you choose ACC?
I had gotten a full-ride scholarship to The University of Texas Permian Basin, but my grandma had gotten sick, and I couldn’t bear to leave her in case she got worse. My dad was against me going because he had worked in Odessa and didn’t like the oil field crowd. So, we compromised, and I looked into doing my basics/getting my associate (degree) and transferring.
How does it feel to be graduating?
It feels amazing. I’m proud of all I’ve done here and thankful for every experience. I’m excited to see what’s next.
What was your favorite part of ACC?
My favorite part was the amount of great professors and people I met along my journey.
Any faculty or staff you want to recognize supporting you?
Vanessa Lazo was a huge part of my life for a few years as I was a Supplemental Instructor for her Spanish courses. She supported me and showed me kindness through the years. The Learning Lab staff has always been amazing and just so phenomenal.
What is next for you?
I am onto university! I was accepted into the English program at Texas Tech, and I’m currently writing a novel that I hope to publish.
What would you tell someone considering applying for college?
I’d tell them to keep going! No matter what life throws at you, education is so important. If you can just keep working at it, it’ll pay off and become something so beneficial to you and a rewarding success that you accomplished on your own and through the help of others.