Melissa Perez's Journey

Melissa Perez shares her journey from struggling in a Bronx high school to becoming the first in her family to graduate. Initially uninterested in school, her perspective changed after becoming a mother at 17. With the encouragement of a supportive math teacher, Melissa was motivated to pursue her education, ultimately graduating and setting a new vision for her future.

Where was Melissa Perez born and raised?

• Los Angeles, California

• Bronx, New York City

• Chicago, Illinois

• Houston, Texas

What was one of the challenges Melissa faced in her high school?

• Lack of teachers

• Overcrowded classrooms

• Metal detectors

• No extracurricular activities

Why did Melissa choose to attend only the third period in school?

• She liked the teacher

• Attendance was not taken in the first two periods

• She had a part-time job

• She was involved in sports

What major life event changed Melissa's perspective on education?

• Winning a math competition

• Getting a scholarship

• Moving to a new city

• Becoming pregnant

What was Melissa's initial thought about her future after becoming pregnant?

• She would become a teacher

• She would work for $7.25 an hour

• She would travel the world

• She would start a business

Who was the teacher that encouraged Melissa to continue her education?

• Ms. Brown

• Thelma

• Mr. Johnson

• Mrs. Smith

What subject did Melissa's supportive teacher teach?

• Science

• Math

• English

• History

How did Melissa's teacher help her in school?

• By pushing her with challenging questions

• By giving her extra homework

• By offering her private tutoring

• By allowing her to skip classes

What impact did becoming a young mother have on Melissa?

• It made her drop out of school

• It made her start a business

• It gave her a new perspective on her future

• It led her to move to another city

What significant achievement did Melissa accomplish?

• Graduating from high school

• Publishing a book

• Starting her own company

• Winning a national award