Who is Teaching This Class?

It always seems like a good idea that you get to know the person that is teaching your class, so allow us to introduce ourselves.

Instructors:

Carlos Perales

Hello everyone and welcome to this Summer 2021 Introduction to College Class. My name is Carlos Perales and I am one of two instructors set to co-teach this class. This course is designed to guide you through the process of getting ready to start and succeed in college. Now I can totally understand that taking online courses can be a new experience to some, so we will do our best to create an interactive and productive learning environment. I have been at West Los Angeles College since Fall 2017 as both an instructor and noncredit counselor. I attended University of La Verne (M.S. in Educational Counseling), Cal State Dominguez Hills (B.A. in Communications: Public Relations) and East Los Angeles Community College - ELAC (A.A. in Liberal Arts).

I had to work full time to get me through college. I faced many obstacles throughout my journey. Challenges such as indecisiveness of my major, lack of funding to buy books and materials, being a first generation college student and fear of asking for help. I will do my best to share tips on maneuvering through those same challenges, so that you don't make the same mistakes that I did. On my off time, I like to play and spend time with my 1 year old daughter and wife in our garden, play guitar, reading professional development books and watch the LA Dodgers.

I am looking forward to working with all of you as you work on your education plans and get ready to start your college careers!

Robbie Perez

Hello, all! My name is Robbie Perez and I am the other co-instructor for this course. I am a noncredit counselor at West and have been since January 2020. I also began my college journey at East Los Angeles College before transferring to UCLA and then earning my master's at Loyola Marymount University. Some of my favorite things in life include good vegan food, UCLA Football, video games, and traveling.

I know how difficult the transition from high school to college can be. When I started community college I had no idea what I was doing or how the classes I was taking were contributing to a larger goal and I struggled because of it. It wasn't until I had a developed goal and plan that I found the motivation to do well in my classes. I hope this class can help you define the beginning of your college journey.