Fernando J. Pérez
Video Coordinator
Silicon Valley De-Bug
San Jose, CA USA
“I don’t think there is a formula for how to be a successful student. For me, success was the privilege of being able to continue to learn.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationFernando J. Pérez
Milestones
My road in life took a while to figure out.
I was born and raised in San Jose, California.
I went to a performing arts high school, where I was introduced to art, theater, and digital media.
Attended a local community college in Cupertino, California, for about five years—while I was there, I was able to explore my various interests.
I found that my passions were really centered around ethnic studies, film / television, and helping other people embrace their culture and identity.
Transferred to San Jose State University, where I earned my degree in television, radio, film, and theater (TRFT).
While there, I had the opportunity to run a radio show and a public access television show that focused on telling diverse stories from the community of San Jose.
After I was wrongly arrested during a traffic stop, I wrote about my experience for Silicon Valley De-Bug, a community advocacy organization that gave me a platform to fight my case.
Inspired by their mission, I took my background in video production and radio to help Silicon Valley De-Bug elevate their stories—I am now a full-time video coordinator for the organization.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Bachelor
Television Radio Film Theater (TRFT)
San Jose State University
Television Radio Film Theater (TRFT)
San Jose State University
Career
Video Coordinator
I am a social biography video producer, editor and community organizer.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Film
Non-Profit Organizations
Communicating / Sharing Stories
Day to Day
I coordinate the production of the social biography videos for court sentencing, co-edit Silicon Valley De-Bug print and web media, and conduct trainings in multimedia production.
Advice for Getting Started
Here's the first step for middle school students
Volunteer somewhere or collaborate with others to create change in some way. Be open to exploring your interests and what is available to you. You don't have to fully focus on one thing, you can do as much as you want.
Recommended Education
My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Society in General:
"Get into a career that makes money!"
Challenges I Overcame
School Stress
Legal Trouble
Interviewed By
Community Driven
California’s community colleges open new doors
