Transfer student follows mother's footsteps to find community and a full-time job

The journey of transfer student Lilibet Perez '26 to Alvernia wasn’t exactly traditional. She originally thought she wanted to be an elementary school teacher, only to realize a year-and-a-half into her college journey that her heart wasn’t in it.

So, she took some time off to reflect, working full time before deciding to return to school with a clearer sense of what she wanted. She earned an associate degree while working, which she recalls being a rewarding but challenging experience.

She knew she wanted to transfer somewhere to earn her bachelor’s degree, but was looking for a place where she wouldn’t feel like just another number. Alvernia was the answer. She recalls the campus feeling personal. And it didn’t hurt that her mother, Xiomara Cabreja '06, is an alum.

Stories her mother shared made a huge impression on her, Perez says.

“It made Alvernia feel familiar in a way, but I also saw it as an opportunity to create my own path while being part of something meaningful," she said. "My mom always spoke about how supportive the environment was and how much her professors truly cared about her success. She made it clear that Alvernia wasn’t just about academics, it was about community and personal growth, which definitely influenced my decision [to enroll.]”

The transfer process being easy was a bonus.

“The process was actually really smooth," she said. "They were helpful, responsive and made sure my credits transferred in a way that made sense for my goals. I felt supported right away, which made a huge difference.”

Perez’s new path was psychology, which was also her mother’s major. She says the field felt like the perfect fit as it allows her to combine her curiosity about the mind with her desire to support people, especially families and children, in a deeper, more impactful way.

She explained: “I’ve always been really interested in understanding how people think, feel and behave. Over time, that interest turned into a passion for helping others, especially in a way that feels meaningful and lasting.”

Perez has felt especially supported by her professors at Alvernia.

“They’re always willing to help, whether it’s with coursework, career advice or just offering encouragement when things feel overwhelming,” she asserted. “They’ve pushed me to do my best while also making me feel capable, which has made a huge difference in my confidence as a student and as a future professional.”

Those working at her practicum site, Easterseals Eastern Pennsylvania, are impressed. So much so that Perez was offered, and accepted, a full-time position prior to graduation due to her exceptional performance.

“My practicum has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience,” Perez said. “It’s allowed me to take everything I’ve learned in the classroom and actually apply it in real-life situations with families and children.”

In the long term, Perez would love to continue her education and earn her Ph.D. in psychology.

“I’d love to work in marriage and family counseling," she said, "and eventually would love to become a professor so I can help guide and support future students the way my professors have supported me.”

— Written by Nikki M. Murry