Growing up on the west side of Dayton was not easy. Every day brought a new challenge: a leaking roof, no heat during the winter, schools struggling from lack of resources, and a neighborhood impacted by the drug epidemic. My mother, who worked two jobs for many years, carried the weight of raising me and my brother on her own. On top of these struggles, I faced the burden of being judged by stereotypes as a young African American male.

High school was one of the most difficult chapters of my life. I was tested in ways I never imagined, but I endured through the strength of my mother, my faith, and my own determination. During that time, I became involved in an altercation that changed the course of my life. I was expelled and nearly lost the chance to graduate. The incident left me with two broken jawbones and lasting physical and emotional pain. I fell behind in my classes and faced the very real possibility of not finishing school. However, I was fortunate to be accepted into a flexible high school program that gave me the opportunity to recover. I spent long hours making up assignments and pushing myself forward. Despite the setbacks, I was determined to graduate with my class—and I did.

After high school, I became the first in my family to attend college. I enrolled at Sinclair Community College, where I registered with Accessibility Services to ensure I had the support I needed to succeed academically. As an Electronic Engineering student, I was hesitant when my professor encouraged me to join a 2017 study abroad trip to Guatemala. At the time, I doubted whether I could afford it or whether I was ready for such an experience. Taking a leap of faith, I decided to go, and the trip changed my life. In Guatemala, I built strong relationships with classmates and faculty who became like family. Witnessing the poverty there gave me a new perspective—reminding me of my own struggles, yet also helping me realize how blessed I was.

My academic journey has been one of persistence and growth. In Spring 2021, I proudly earned two associate degrees in Computer Engineering and Electronic Engineering from Sinclair. I then transferred to Wright State University to pursue my bachelor’s degree, initially in Computer Engineering before shifting my focus to Information Technology and Cybersecurity—a field that combines my technical interests with my passion for protecting systems and people.

Looking ahead, my career goal is to work for an aerospace company in the Dayton area and eventually establish my own cybersecurity and engineering firm. Along the way, I am committed to developing my leadership skills so I can mentor others, just as I was mentored. I want to inspire students to pursue education, take opportunities to study abroad, and believe in themselves. My life story is proof that no matter where you come from, you can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.