Life & Work with Daniela Perez of Orange

Today we’d like to introduce you to Daniela Perez

Hi Daniela, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was raised by two immigrant parents who worked tirelessly to provide for my siblings and me. Their dedication and sacrifices have shaped who I am today, and I credit much of my success to their example. Growing up in Orange, I was fortunate to have access to opportunities that helped me thrive, particularly through education and extracurricular activities. These experiences fueled my ambition and my desire to give back to my community.
Curious about public systems and their impact on society, I decided to pursue a degree in Political Science and Criminal Justice at California State University, Fullerton. Later, I earned a Master’s in Public Administration with a concentration in Human Resources from the same institution. Today, I am proud to work at Cal State Fullerton, where I continue to build on my academic foundation.
Throughout my life, I’ve sought out opportunities to serve my community, from volunteering at the Orange County Public Library to interning with Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, and, later, joining a fellowship with the California Democratic Party of North Orange County. These experiences deepened my understanding of public policies, including their impact on the workforce, immigration, and changing demographics. I also learned how income disparities often leave underprivileged communities at a disadvantage. These insights, rooted in both my education and hands-on experience, have strengthened my passion for advocating for individuals with backgrounds similar to mine.
Ultimately, my goal is to use my education and professional experience to empower others, just as I was empowered by the opportunities I was given. I am committed to serving my community and creating pathways for others to reach their full potential.
Outside of my work and passion for public service, I enjoy attending concerts, taking road trips, traveling, visiting beaches, and exploring new coffee shops with my significant other.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to where I am today has certainly not been without its challenges, but each struggle has been an opportunity for growth and learning. As the daughter of immigrants, I grew up witnessing firsthand the sacrifices my parents made to provide for our family. While their hard work and determination were inspiring, it also meant that we didn’t always have the resources or support that others might have had. There were times when balancing school, work, and family obligations felt overwhelming, but my parents’ example of resilience kept me motivated to push through.
Another challenge has been navigating the complexities of higher education while working full-time. Juggling multiple roles in both my academic and professional life has required a great deal of time management, discipline, and perseverance. At times, it felt like I had little time for myself, but the desire to build a better future for myself and my community kept me focused on my goals. Ultimately, these struggles have made my journey more rewarding. They’ve taught me resilience, time management, and the importance of seeking support when needed. While the road hasn’t always been smooth, I’m proud of how far I’ve come and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Aside from my education and professional work, I enjoy exploring new experiences, whether it’s visiting unique coffee shops, attending live music shows, or embarking on road trips. The end of COVID-19 marked a turning point for me, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace solo adventures. As someone raised by traditional Mexican parents, I faced certain limitations growing up, especially as the middle child. However, I’ve always been known for pushing boundaries, and I’m proud of how those experiences have shaped me.
One of the things I’m most proud of is my love for live music. Concerts have not only allowed me to connect with the artists who inspire me but have also helped me explore my roots. From attending bailes in Pico Rivera to discovering the Danish town of Solvang, each adventure is a testament to my curiosity and determination to explore the world. These experiences, which I share on my social media, aim to inspire others from similar backgrounds to embrace their passions—whether through travel, music, or any other hobby.
What sets me apart is my ability to merge my cultural heritage with my adventurous spirit, using both to fuel personal growth and creativity. Whether in my personal life or professional endeavors, I strive to inspire others to push boundaries and find joy in exploration.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors and supporters who have played an instrumental role in my personal and professional development. First and foremost, my parents deserve much of the credit for my success. As immigrants, they worked tirelessly to provide for our family, teaching me the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of education. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for my drive to succeed and give back to my community.
At California State University, Fullerton, I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible colleagues. My teammates in the Student Business Services department have been an immense source of support, especially in helping me navigate complex situations and always ensuring we work collaboratively to resolve issues efficiently, and have shaped my approach to problem-solving and customer service, helping me maintain a strong focus on fostering relationships that prioritize respect and collaboration. To me, they are more than just teammates they are my friends who have been part of my journey from when I joined Student Business Services as a sophomore to graduating from my Master’s Program and then to being part of my wedding.
Their guidance has been invaluable. Additionally, my peers at the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at CSUF were instrumental in keeping me grounded while working towards my degrees. I also want to recognize the professors and staff who have mentored me during my academic journey, particularly in my Master’s program. They’ve challenged me to think critically and have given me the tools I need to succeed in the professional world.
All of these individuals, through their advice, guidance, and belief in me, have had a significant impact on my growth, and I’m deeply grateful for their contributions to my journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/daniellla25
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniellla25/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-perez-081560195
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeezDaniela