Marielis Perez
Marielis isa Global Works alum, who traveled to Panama as a high school student in 2017 and enjoyed it to the point she applied to become an intern in 2019, where she helped the trip leaders and students on this same trip to Costa Rica, and now she is a full fledged trip leader! Although she always loved to travel, going to Panama is what further encouraged her to study abroad and get to know places she’s visited beyond their tourist attractions. “GW really accomplishes its mission of traveling with purpose, the connections and memories you make on the trips are priceless. I do this in hopes of granting other students the same quality and unforgettable experiences.”
Marielis graduated from Boston University, where you could find her leading prospective family tours, interning with a charter school, finding ways to make connections in her community, and helping other students on campus. In her free time, you can find her constantly taking photos of anything that might catch her eye – from entrancing sunsets to day to day objects she thinks hold potential to be a little more interesting if captured from her perspective.
Marielis loves trying new things, even if it scares her a little (arguably, even better if it scares her a little). In addition to meeting new people and getting to know her host family, her favorite memory from the last time she went to Costa Rica was going on the country’s longest and highest zip-line, and skydiving is currently the top thing on her bucket list.
Where did you grow up?
Bronx, NY
Where do you call home now?
Bronx, NY
Year started at Global Works?
2017 as a student, 2019 as a trip leader!
What’s something you can’t live without while you are traveling?
My camera
What’s your favorite memory from a trip you have taken?
There’s honestly too many to choose from
Where is your favorite place you have traveled to?
Top three are Dominican Republic, France, and Costa Rica
Fun fact, special talent, or favorite memory
I’ve been to ~14 countries (+3 other islands)
What do you like to do in your free time?
Write, take/edit photos, travel, and sing terribly
What languages do you speak?
I speak Spanish fluently and I’m learning French and ASL.
If you had to give one piece of advice or words of encouragement to someone on their first travel experience, what would it be?
Be open minded, and try to say yes to every adventure. You might be surprised to find that an activity you’re most hesitant about could become your favorite!