Domenica Perrone: An Inspiring Journey Through Higher Education

A Follow-up on Latinas and Education: Breaking Barriers and Shaping Futures

Domenica Perrone’s pursuit of higher education is a story of determination, resilience, and the transformative power of learning. Born in Ecuador and immigrating to New Jersey at the age of two, Domenica was driven by a deep-seated desire to attend college, influenced by her family’s unwavering support and her own passion for knowledge.

This article is a follow-up to Latinas and Education: Breaking Barriers and Shaping Futures to highlight the personal story of Latinas.

Growing up with two older sisters who also went to college, Domenica was surrounded by role models who inspired her academic ambitions. “Both my sisters went away to college and they served as examples for me,” she shares. Her family’s belief in the importance of education and the encouragement to follow her dreams were pivotal. Domenica’s mother, who had missed out on her own educational opportunities due to socio-economic constraints, was a strong advocate for her daughters’ education. “My mom believed we should follow our dreams. I think she didn't have those same opportunities because my grandmother worked at a factory and my grandfather was very conservative and traditional,” she said.

Discovering Emerson College, Domenica was drawn to its liberal arts model, which allowed her to study creative writing and theory in a progressive environment. However, her family’s lack of knowledge about private student loans led to substantial debt for Domenica and her sisters. This financial burden highlights the need for greater awareness and accessibility in higher education financing.

According to a 2020 report by the Student Borrower Protection Center, around 72 percent of Latino students take out loans to attend college, compared with 66 percent of white students. The study also found that 12 years after starting college, the median Latino borrower still owes 83 percent of their initial student loan balance, while the median white borrower owes only 65 percent of their original balance.

“All of us, and especially myself, have a massive amount of student debt - which is tough because education should be accessible for everyone,” exclaimed Domenica.

Domenica’s journey was not without its challenges. As a student at a private liberal arts college, she faced imposter syndrome, feeling out of place in a predominantly white institution. “I didn’t meet many other BIPOC or immigrant folks who were domestic students,” she explains. This experience often made her doubt her place in the academic environment.

Despite these challenges, Domenica found strength and resilience through community and service. Participating in programs like Jump Start and Alternative Spring Break trips helped her connect with like-minded peers and build a support network. These experiences played a crucial role in mitigating the effects of imposter syndrome and fostering a sense of belonging. “I am very lucky to have found like-minded friends with similar lived experiences. This is how I build resilience,” she stated.

Work-study opportunities and involvement in service activities were instrumental in Domenica’s college experience. “Getting a job in the dining hall early on and participating in service activities helped me find a sense of belonging,” she notes. Now working in higher education, Domenica emphasizes the importance of resources such as mental health services, financial aid, and student employment in supporting students’ needs.

Her cultural background also significantly influenced her educational journey. As an immigrant, Domenica viewed higher education as a pathway to opportunities and personal growth. She takes pride in her accomplishments and recognizes the importance of representation, particularly for Latinas and Ecuadorians in academia. “As an immigrant, pursuing higher education meant a lot to me. It opened doors and opportunities,” she said. “I know Latinas, and specifically Ecuadorians, make a small percentage of all those getting bachelor, masters and Post-doctorate degrees. I take pride in my accomplishments, and my family does as well.”

Throughout her college years, Domenica connected with other BIPOC students through classes and service activities, although she acknowledges that more needs to be done to create affinity spaces for BIPOC students. “I don't think all colleges do a great job creating affinity spaces for BIPOC students,” she said. “I think now, after 2020, college campuses are more conscious of creating those spaces that facilitate opportunities to build relationships with those who hold similar identities.” The heightened awareness and efforts post-2020 to establish such spaces are steps in the right direction.

While she did not participate in specific programs for Hispanic or Latino students during her studies, Domenica’s later work with the Latino Education Institute (LEI) at Worcester State University highlighted the positive impact such organizations can have. The LEI’s model of integrating resources to support Latinx students and the wider community serves as a blueprint for other institutions. “As a youth worker, the LEI has made a huge impact on my experiences with higher ed and community,” she noted.

To better support Latina students, Domenica advocates for improved financial aid, financial literacy education, and increased representation among faculty and staff. Providing equitable and accessible tools is crucial for shaping positive college experiences. She also calls for continued efforts to address misconceptions about Latina students in higher education and to push for greater access and representation.

Financial aid and literacy would make a huge impact, as well as affinity spaces and representation through faculty and staff. It's important to provide students with equitable and accessible tools that shape their college experiences.

Domenica firmly believes in the transformative power of higher education. “Higher education opens up so many opportunities, such as obtaining degrees, building relationships and social skills, leadership, critical thinking skills, community, identity, and mentorship,” she asserts. She envisions a future where Latinas, empowered by education, will drive innovation, teamwork, and societal change.

Domenica Perrone’s journey underscores the importance of accessible education, supportive communities, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams. Her story serves as an inspiration to many and a reminder of the critical role education plays in advancing opportunities for all with a focus on uplifting those most marginalized.