I spent half of my childhood in Tequila, Jalisco, and half in California. Growing up in both places, I experienced the differences in cultures and lifestyles in Mexico and the United States. From my experience, I noticed a lack of resources to help students succeed in their careers in Mexico compared to the U.S. My father has been a truck driver, and my mother was a full-time caring and loving mother.

Some of the greatest challenges growing up was navigating through school without the guidance of my parents or siblings. I didn’t have much family nearby, so I had to rely on my church and friends.

I grew up with my older brother, Mario. Working and helping him in his electronic repair business made me realize the hardships of getting by each month’s rent.

I pursued a career in business and computer science after participating in Google’s Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI). The institute was an intensive 3-week boot camp learning about the fundamentals of programming from Google Engineers at Mountainview. Ultimately, I want to start my own computer science non-profit in Mexico that will help flourish youth talent in the field of technology.

Some of the saddest moments in my career have been getting job offers taken back due to immigration status. But some of my happiest moments are closely tied to the on-campus organization I found, CodePath at the University of California, Irvine. The organization has grown to be a successful club on campus helping underrepresented college students computer science.

El sol sale para todos (“The sun comes out for everyone”). Sometimes we feel like everything is against us and that there are not many opportunities out there to help us achieve our goals. However, just as plants grow towards the direction of the sun, eventually we all come out of the shadows and start finding our way to reach our goals. Be patient. Stay strong.

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Advice to younger self:

• • Be patient and trust the process. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice and seek help!