Get to know Alexander Peralta
Alex Peralta joined the College of Graduate Studies as administrative coordinator, Office of Graduate Education, in November. He recently shared his story with The Pulse.
Why did you want to become part of the NEOMED community?
Growing up in Miami I was surrounded by diversity. To be frank, flying from Florida to Ohio, I noticed Rootstown was very rural compared to what I was accustomed to and was a bit hesitant. However, that all subsided after meeting Julie Aultman, Ph.D., dean of the College of Graduate Studies, as well as the College of Graduate Studies admin team, that I am now very happy to be part of. It was all the reassurance I needed. They made me feel as if I was part of NEOMED’s community already. We spoke to various folks from different departments where I was able to meet the wonderful people who work here. From that point forward I knew I wanted to be a part of this amazing community and interject myself in NEOMED’s growing vision.
What are your primary responsibilities in your role?
My main responsibility is to assist the dean of the College of Graduate Studies, Dr. Aultman. I also assist the newly appointed interim inaugural dean of the College of Dentistry, Frank Beck, D.D.S., FAHD, and associate dean Kristin Victoroff, D.D.S., Ph.D. Included in that, I also work with and assist faculty members from all programs within the College of Graduate Studies.
You said you flew up from Florida. Is that where you’re from?
A son of immigrants, I was born in Miami, Florida, but my family and I are from a small Miskito town called Puerto Cabeza located in Nicaragua.
What are you most excited about in your first year at NEOMED?
Growth. I have learned a vast amount of knowledge and information in just being here for six months. The next six months will be exciting to say the least, from being part of the admin team and helping facilitate a fast-paced growing College. Now, simultaneously also being part of a great team that is creating the University’s new College of Dentistry. I am very fortunate to be a part of it all.
What are some of your favorite things to do outside of work?
Currently I am studying for the LSAT, so that is my newest “favorite” thing to do when I get home from work. But typically, outside of work I love being able to read non-fiction books, go to the gym, discover new music, learn new dishes to cook, travel with my partner, watch movies/shows, but most importantly, being able to talk with my five-year-old niece back at home while she fills me in on how her day went.
Where’s your favorite place to spend time in Northeast Ohio?
I moved to Ohio in November, so I am still learning about all the great places it has to offer. However, my favorite place I’ve come across so far would have to be the Cleveland Art Museum or any Cinemark Theater on a Tuesday night or Saturday. I welcome suggestions on any places that folks would recommend visiting!