Genesis Perez is a graduate student at Hunter College School of Social Work, on track to receive her MSW in spring of 2022. In 2018, as a freshman at LaGuardia Community College, Genesis became a peer mentor for the Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation (CHLDC) College Steps Office at the Brooklyn Lab School (Franklin K. Lane Campus), her alma mater. A first generation Dominican-American, Genesis provides support and inspiration for hundreds of young people to succeed in their quest to pursue higher education. 

 

Genesis first came to CHLDC as a participant in the Franklin K. Lane Campus Early College Awareness Program and the Student Success Center. She credits the CHLDC Student Success Center with providing her with the guidance and confidence she needed to pursue a college degree. After completing her Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts, Genesis attended Hunter College where she received her B.A. in Social Work with honors. Most recently Genesis was accepted into Hunter College’s renowned School of Social Work as a Master’s Candidate with Advanced Standing. She has completed her social work internship hours as a counselor and coach for students at Brooklyn Lab School. 

 

Genesis plans to become a clinical social worker offering mental health services for young people in Cypress Hills and East New York. According to CHLDC Executive Director Michele Neugebauer, “While Genesis’s academic accomplishments are impressive, I believe it is her incredible commitment to giving back to her community that truly distinguishes her as a leader. With her limitless energy for helping young people and giving back, she is truly a role model for us all.”

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