July 8th, 2011

San Juan, P.R-  Once, when representing the Student Government Association, Saúl Pérez had the opportunity to visit the Congress during a Job Corps’ nation-wide Leadership Conference, but not to meet his Congressional representation in person. But his hopes were later surprised when he was selected because of his achievements and conduct to be the Student Shadow for Resident Commissioner Hon. Pedro Pierluisi in the District Office.

Saúl is currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s Program at the Interamerican University of Aguadilla. Thanks to the Advanced Career Training Program and Saúl’s merits, Ramey Job Corps supports part of his academic financial responsibilities for the Information Technology bachelor’s program . Also, this 19 year old gentleman, is enrolled in the ARMY’s ROTC program.

It is definitely not easy to find a mentor of this political magnitude. Usually, Congressmen have tight schedules and join meetings were the participants are selected and no guests are allowed. This time, Saúl had the chance to spend a complete business day with him, joining a media videochat, an university conference, a televised presentation, a walk through the district office where he met most of his staff, a radio interview, and a welcome to a Home Wounded Warrior.  Although, the schedule was so busy, during lunch they had a pleasant chat which moved them both.

Resident Commissioner Pierluisi is an actual member of the Friends of Job Corps Caucus and is a defender of Job Corps values and continuous efforts to safeguard the funding needed to provide Job Corps’ youth with the support they need to become independent and successful professionals. Thanks to actions like this; providing a youth a chance to meet what it takes to represent a country, not only helps Job Corps success to be promoted, but it certainly promotes Saúl’s aspirations.