Maximiliano Perez isn’t just the President of the Undergraduate Student Government Association (SGA) here at UHD—he’s also a future health policy advocate and physician. A senior majoring in Biology with minors in both Chemistry and Computer Science, Perez’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and representation. From his early days as a curious freshman emailing K-Pop club leaders to now leading town halls and safety initiatives, Perez’s path proves that leadership often starts with one simple step: showing up.
Perez first ran for SGA Senator in the College of Sciences & Technology. After winning that race and, as he said "serving to the best of [his] ability," he worked his way up to Vice President, and then to his current role as President. In between, he helped co-found the Undergraduate Journal Club, supported Girl Genius biomedical projects, joined a fraternity, worked as a supplemental instructor, and even conducted cancer-cell research on campus.
As President, he wants to make it a point to spotlight students and help them feel a sense of belonging. “One of my biggest priorities is listening really listening to the student body.” To accomplish this, he partnered with leaders like Adriana Taylor, Senator for the College of Public Service, as well as others, and used surveys and feedback tools to collect student opinions on such issues as parking, communication gaps, and campus safety, especially lighting and security presence in parking areas after dark.
As part of its civic engagement efforts, SGA again organized its annual Walk2Vote on Monday, Oct. 27, and spoke to attendees about why voting matters right now, not just in theory. After the program, students, staff, and community members walked together from campus to 1019 Congress Street, where they were among the first in Harris County to exercise their rights at the ballot box.
For a large number of students here at UHD, this will be their first-time voting. "You are among your peers, and this is your opportunity to make a difference in what your future will be,” said Perez. Asked to give tips on how students should begin their campus involvement, Perez was straightforward: “Simple: Ask around. Show up. Try. It could be a flyer or a club meeting, but all little steps will result in something bigger.”