From grade school, to high school, and now at the college level, dedicated mentors have helped me in this journey called education. In the last three semesters, I had the opportunity to give back to those who have given me so much by volunteering at my alumnus high school as a math tutor. This opportunity has magnified my respect for those who embark on the role of educators with such dedication and determination. I owe a debt of gratitude. I am truly honored to receive this award and will strive to maintain its level of integrity, dignity and excellence for which it represents.
Some parents dream of having famous, wealthy, successful children.
Mine just wanted me to be happy. As people who did not graduate from college themselves, they recognized that the possibilities for attaining such bliss would increase considerably if I had a college diploma. They never let me think there would be any obstacles, whether academic or financial, that would stand in my way. From a very young age I knew that if I worked hard, they would make sacrifices and help me to live my life in any way I chose. I thank my parents for modeling a life based on compassion and the constant pursuit of knowledge.