Curiosity! Growing up, I always had an interest in working in public service, but didn’t know exactly where to start. I took advantage of every opportunity I had to try it all.

My first job was with SYEP at LaGuardia Community College’s Center for Immigrant Education and Training, where I learned the importance of caring for and supporting marginalized communities. I then continued to nurture my passion for service through student government, local community action, and networking with public service officials. I’ve found that the most impactful aspect of my journey has been building a strong support system of family, mentors, and friends who share my passion for making the world a better place.

I am most proud of supporting the broader Queens community. Education is the greatest equalizer in this country. Being able to wake up every day and support the families and students of Queens is truly a blessing. I strive to set-up then same infrastructure and resources they need to succeed and that I myself utilized as a Queens student.  I’m honored to work alongside individuals who have also chose to dedicate their careers to public service and bettering Queens day by day

Try a little bit of everything. Be curious, open-minded and kind. Every opportunity is a learning experience and will allow you to grow into being the best person you can be.

As a lifelong New Yorker, leaving the state for six years to pursue my studies and exploring other ways of life was the greatest gift because it showed me how much of a New Yorker I truly am. From New York lingo, to eating and enjoying every type of culture that the world has to offer, I always prided myself in how diversity has shaped my life growing up here. Queens gets the money! 

I owe my career success to my parents’ sacrifice to help me immigrate to this country, and to remarkable professionals and educators who equipped me with the necessary skills and qualifications needed to become a useful member of our NY society.

When students call me to share when they landed their dream job after our career readiness workshops, I feel accomplished! The moment we change someone’s life, the term impact becomes a tangible superpower.

Never stop learning. Our society continues to evolve with the emergence of new technologies and resources; so should we.

I felt immense joy during the pandemic seeing local businesses like restaurants building wooden outdoor-seating areas; that small space where they placed their little hopes left to stay afloat later became their business/income expansion. A global crisis only made them stronger! That example of New York’s resilience was my New Yorker moment.