My family is from the Dominican Republic, and emigrated to New York City two generations ago.

I was raised by my mother-- a NYC police officer whom retired after being injured in the line of duty.

I supported myself throughout college by means of scholarships, grants, internships, and work. (I had three jobs at one point in my college career!)

Although my work schedule precluded any chance of on-campus involvement, I became extensively involved by informally mentoring my peers. The leadership development organizations that I was a part of allowed me to impart my knowledge to fellow students, as well as recruit them for the same programs that allowed me access to valuable personal and professional resources.

As an INROADS Intern, Management Leadership for Tomorrow Fellow, and Goldman Sachs Scholar, I traveled across the country throughout my undergraduate years to meet and collaborate with the most talented and motivated students in the nation, and some of the world's most prominent Fortune 500 corporations.

Through those programs, I gained invaluable mentorship and industry exposure.  My involvement with these leadership and professional development organizations defined my undergraduate experience, and continues to define my professional experience.