Ep13: Finding Belonging And Purpose In College - Dolores Perales

Ilona and Joy talk with Dolores Perales, who is a recipient of the Young Climate Leader Award through the Michigan Climate Action Network. Her journey through college was not easy, and is also full of inspiration and impact. 

 

Key Takeaways:

• How to follow your own path?
• Dolores’ passion about the intersectionality between environmental justice and health
• Building off past meaningful experiences to help determine one’s major 
• Navigating the barriers of being a first-generation college student 
• The tension between wanting to be a role-model for others and feeling like an imposter
• The game changers for Dolores - what helped her decide not to drop out
• The power of mentoring and being mentored
• Advice for taking care of your mental health as a college student 

 

The Michigan Climate Action Network is comprised of more than 70 organizations and 30,000 individuals and partners with many coalitions and campaigns working for climate solutions and justice. The organization’s mission is to connect and amplify individuals, communities, and organizations confronting the climate crisis in Michigan and support them in advancing equitable climate solutions with the urgency science demands for the environment and all that live in it. 

 

The inaugural Michigan Climate Awards recognize Michiganders doing exceptional work in these areas. The Young Climate Leader Award goes to a student or other young person going above and beyond as a volunteer or individual. 

 

One of the many people who nominated Perales wrote, “As a classmate of Dolores', I've learned so much from her, and watch her work tirelessly to fundraise and promote events that educate our community. She is an inspiration and deserves the Young Climate Leader award.”

 

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