Background

1. Where did you grow up and what was life like there?

I was born and raised in Harlem. While at times rough, the various aspects of the city life have sculpted me into a resourceful individual who can adapt to any environment. Moreover, my life in the city has taught me to learn from everything in life.

2. Describe your parents and/or family members?

My family has always been the backbone of my life. Their prayers and love have propelled me forward to achieve great things. Without them, I do not know where I would be.

3. What was high school like? What were your favorite activities? Who inspired you?

My high school is a small public school in the middle of Harlem. It is approximately 80% black and 20% Latino. I always assisted my principal in whatever I could. Amongst my favorite activities was a week-long journey in Japan, a mentoring program I founded for middle school students, and a ”Freedom Ride” trip to D.C. and Alabama where I had the opportunity to retrace the Civil Rights Movement.

4. How did you discover Hamilton?

Liberal arts colleges are unknown where I’m from. I heard of Hamilton from my AP US History teacher Mr. Redell Armstrong. He graduated from Hamilton a few years ago. Seeing that he was one of my mentors, I followed his advice and applied.

5. What were your first impressions of the College? Do you find they’re still true today?

My first impression of Hamilton was that it was a place where I would not exactly fit in. I would come here to learn and meet the people who would guide me in my next steps in life. Today, Hamilton has grown onto me a bit more. I have become more comfortable. However, my purpose remains the same.

6. What are three defining elements of your time on the Hill?

I make sure I take time out for myself. I dedicate what time is necessary for academics. I also dedicate time to my extracurricular activities on campus.

7. What Hamilton voices (professor(s)/coach(es)/advisor(s)) have inspired you? Why?

I am most inspired by my Professor/Advisor Phil Klinkner and Professor Todd Franklin. Both have taught me to always strive for more than what is expected of me. They have always extended their hand whenever I needed assistance. They have also served as my mentors on this campus.

8. Have you volunteered as a student? If yes, what did you find most rewarding about the experience?

I have volunteered during my Freshmen Orientation and also try to incorporate the local community through my organization Blue Vinyl. We once held a hip-hop cypher concert that featured local artists. While my current efforts to volunteer have been rather limited, I hope to contribute back to my community in Harlem. As a matter of fact, my life goal is to become a Defense Attorney. As a public defender I hope to volunteer as a mentor, teacher, and friend for my community. The most rewarding aspect of volunteering is the feeling you get when you know you have helped someone for the better.

9. What are your plans after Hamilton? Where do you want to live?

God-willing, I will attend law school. I would prefer to live near a major city.

10. What advice or perspective would you share with alumni?

Be sure to seize every opportunity that comes your way!