Alyssa Perez: Fostering Belonging Through School Counseling

Alyssa Perez, a master’s student in the COE’s School Counseling program, is driven by a singular mission: ensuring every student feels seen and valued. For Alyssa, counseling is about more than academic guidance; it’s about nurturing the social and emotional well-being of the whole child.

Throughout her time at Lehigh, Alyssa has balanced a rigorous academic load with high-impact practical experience. Whether through her internship, practicum, or her role as a Graduate Assistant for Fraternity and Sorority Life, she has honed her ability to collaborate with diverse families and school staff.

"The COE emphasizes both evidence-based practice and real-world application, which is vital as I prepare for diverse school settings," Alyssa says. "Being at Lehigh has helped me grow not only professionally, but personally. It has strengthened my confidence in my path and my passion for supporting students."

Life in the Lehigh Valley: When she isn’t advocating for students or serving as a School Counseling Student Ambassador, Alyssa can be found exploring the charm of Bethlehem. She loves discovering new local coffee shops, trying downtown restaurants, and soaking in the atmosphere of the city’s many community festivals.

Connect with Alyssa: Have questions about the program? Reach out to Alyssa through our [Student Ambassador page].