Growing up in Crystal Lake, Illinois – a suburb of Chicago – I lived a privileged, middle-class lifestyle. I was fortunate enough to go to an excellent high school, find jobs that could support buying a car and paying for college, and had friends & family that provided a support system.

The greatest challenge I had while growing up was myself. I mean the thoughts I had during my anxiety attacks and having a mind that would never stop thinking about coming out as gay while being in a Catholic family. I never spoke of such things, but it was my biggest obstacle I have encountered so far. By facing my fear head-on and truly embracing my identity, I realized the value of oneself. An acquaintance I had in college later pointed out to me that my Facebook profile pictures changed. These pictures helped me realize my smile seemed almost fake before I came out. After I came out, it seemed that I was finally, genuinely happy; the smile finally became real.

The most influential people in my life, I thought, were my seventh grade ELA teacher and my Grandma. But, without trying to sound conceited, the most influential person in my life is myself. I have realized that I am in charge of my own happiness, passions, and pursuing a career in promoting equity within the U.S. education system.

Prior to graduating from my graduate degree, I had a love-hate relationship with my profession for four years. I was a math teacher at a high school in the suburbs of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. While, I had some of the happiest moments of my career – seeing students have their “ah-ha” moments, connecting with students on a more personal level to learn what truly inspires them, and pushing them to pursue their dreams. But, this was also the time I realized that systematic racism exists within our education system. Seeing the education system take away opportunities from some students, motivated me to pursue a Master’s degree in Data and Statistics where I use my research to inform teacher best-practices and policy change.

I am now proudly a data and policy analyst for an education advocacy group in Southeastern Michigan. The best advice I can give to future individuals is not to be afraid of change. If you are unhappy in a profession, do not be afraid to pursue a career that makes you happier. If you are unhappy with your personal life, do not be afraid to pursue other hobbies, passions, or life changes. In addition, something I have learned along the way is that you cannot do it alone. Make connections with colleagues, friends, students, and family. Build a support system from all walks of life to help you become your best, happiest self.

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Advice to younger self:

• • There are going to be times where you doubt yourself, where you feel as if you do not belong, where you feel as if you do not know what you are doing nor where you are going; that is okay. While this can and will cause anxiety and stress, you better grab hold of the handlebars of life and enjoy the journey. Because while you ride out the anxiety and stress you will begin to learn who you are, what you are passionate about, and why you belong.