Biography

I was born in El Salvador, and due to the civil war prevailing in my home country, my family relocated to the United States in 1980. We initially settled in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where my uncle resided, before eventually relocating to South Florida. My early encounters with computers during my formative years ignited a profound fascination and affinity for them. At the age of 7, my mother procured a Commodore 64, which my brother and I avidly tinkered with, delving into rudimentary Basic programming whenever the opportunity arose.

As I progressed through my high school years, I consistently enrolled in programming courses and eventually advanced to the level of taking Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Programming. Following the conclusion of the civil war, my family decided to return to El Salvador. However, I experienced a sense of not truly belonging there, prompting my return to the United States a little over a year later. I pursued my academic journey at Louisiana State University, though my financial constraints necessitated yet another move back to South Florida.

During this time, I completed associate degrees in three diverse fields: Early Childhood Education, Computer Science, and Music Education, from local colleges and universities. Following the acquisition of my associate degrees, I held various employment positions until I found my niche as an IT Support specialist for a software leasing company. Subsequently, after entering the bonds of matrimony, I made the pivotal decision to relocate to North Carolina.

In North Carolina, I engaged in several job positions within the county. However, the tragic events of September 11, 2001, compelled me to make a life-altering choice, prompting my enlistment in the military. I dedicated over seven years to my military service before a life-altering accident resulted in a severe traumatic brain injury.

Since the accident, I have dedicated myself to a rigorous journey of personal rehabilitation and recovery. The support of my family, the programs offered by the Veteran's Affairs for Traumatic Brain Injury, the Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Recovery Center (PRRC), and the unwavering presence of my wife, Sarah, have been instrumental in my remarkable progress.

I have subsequently established an independent life with my spouse and children and have embarked on an academic pursuit at Daytona State University. I am relishing my academic endeavors and take immense pride in my quest to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology. My ultimate aspiration is to continue my path to recovery and to consistently strive towards becoming a better individual.