Graduate Spotlight: Christina Perez

Christina Perez, a criminal Justice student at Northampton Community College (NCC), has had her fair share of trials throughout her life, but she’s turned those experiences into a life of service and purpose. 

After high school, she worked in cosmetology, but she wanted something different. She enlisted as a U.S. Army combat engineer in 2008, which afforded her the opportunity to pursue a different field of study through more schooling. Perez completed three years of military service before returning to civilian life and continuing her work in cosmetology before considering her next steps.  

A mother of two, Perez made the decision to pause her career and focus on raising her children. In 2024, she returned to school to study criminal justice, motivated by a desire to create meaningful change in the lives of others. 

Perez’s path has been shaped by significant personal challenges. Having spent much of her childhood in foster care, she experienced firsthand the instability and trauma that many young people face. These experiences now drive her academic and career goals. 

“I want to be a voice for children who feel unheard,” she shares. “I want them to know they’re not alone." 

Perez has a goal of building a career in juvenile probation or parole. “This is a field where I could work with kids and help them thrive in life, even if they didn't have the best upbringing. This will be their second chance, and I can keep them on track and hold them accountable.” 

Throughout her time at NCC, Perez has found strong support through the College’s Veterans Services. She credits the program with helping her navigate her return to school and providing a sense of connection and community. She was also recognized with a Military Student Award, reflecting her dedication and perseverance. 

Perez plans to continue her education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the future after giving birth to the newest member of her family this summer. She remains focused on her long-term mission: to advocate for and uplift young people who need it most. 

Her advice to others is rooted in her own life experience. “No matter how hard life gets, you have to keep going. If someone tells you that you can’t do something, let that motivate you. Don’t let others define who you are or what you can become.”