Jack Perala
Expected Graduation: Spring 2023
Major: Biochemistry
What are your hobbies/interests?
I like playing and watching baseball, going on bike rides, playing disc golf, cooking, playing the guitar and the tuba, and hiking.
Why did you choose UMD for college?
I go to St. Scholastica, and I chose CSS because it’s close to my hometown and I appreciate the small class sizes and the ability to develop relationships with all of my professors.
What is your favorite part about being a part of the BulldogCatholic community?
My favorite part about being part of Bulldog Catholic is the fact that I am surrounded by a large group of people my age that love Jesus and are on fire for the church and all that surrounds it.
Why should someone come to a Bulldog Catholic event?
All of the Bulldog Catholic events I’ve been to have been a blast. Even if it’s the first one you go to, you feel like you’ve been there for hundreds because of the kindness and hospitality of anyone involved. Also, a bunch of Bulldog Catholic events have free food and what’s there not to love about free food?
What would you tell a Senior in high school who is looking for the right college?
I would tell a Senior in search of the right college not to think too much. Make your decision based on whatever feels right for you, and don’t worry about what others might think of you based on your decision.
What is the biggest lesson that you have learned while in college?
The biggest lesson I learned from my first year of college is that it is great to keep yourself busy, but there’s a point where you’re overloading yourself. Don’t try to be a superhero and do everything you possibly can because it will wear you out physically, emotionally, and mentally.
Who is your favorite Saint and quote from them?
My favorite Saint is Saint Moses the Ethiopian. He said “Throw your weaknesses before God, and the Lord will become your strength.”
What has been your favorite memory in college?
My favorite college memory was having an epic snow war behind the Newman Center for a men’s night. I call it a snow war because it was not any ordinary snowball fight. There were shovels acting as catapults, there was snow built into barricades, and there were so many complete betrayals against each team that it turned into every man for himself.
If you could shrink any animal to puppy-size, what animal would you own?
I think this is already a thing, but I would shrink down a hippo to puppy size. I could probably train it to protect me, and since it would be a little less dangerous at a smaller size it would definitely be safe to take it on a walk around town.
What’s the most useless talent you have?
I can take a nap at any given time and at any given place. Some would call it narcolepsy, but I just call it raw talent. (It’s not actually narcolepsy so don’t be concerned).