Where are you from?
The Southwest side of Chicago, but my roots are from Durango, Mexico. I come from the Durangenie tribe.
Why did you decide to apply to NPEP?
I would like for all my nieces and nephews to attend college. One of my favorite nieces (Aly) is about to start college very soon. Times are gonna get harder in this process, but if we’re in this together maybe it can be easier for both of us. Also, I didn’t really believe I would be accepted in the program. So, my wife was a big influence in submitting my application. She was the constant voice telling me that “I can do it, and I will do it.”
What does being part of NPEP mean to you?
Hope. Because no one in my immediate family has attended college, and the trajectory I was on college was not in my future. Nothing was in my future. It gives me hope because I can see a future where I contribute positively to my family and future generations. It gives me strength. The strength I never believed I had to accomplish things I never thought I could.
What are you looking forward to as a NPEP student?
Walking across that stage and seeing pride in the eyes of my loved ones in the audience.
What is something you would like others to know about you?
That I am an aspiring country singer. I might not be very good at it; however, I am not gonna stop trying. And I love to see others smile.
What is a fact about yourself that others might find interesting?
I am an avid Pepakurian and Karakurian.