About Me

My Journey

To be honest, I've never even known what coding was until my second quarter of college as a freshman. I've always loved playing games and had a passion for computers, but that never really led me to understand how they were built; it's like I just used a phone, but never really understood the fundamentals of each component that makes a phone. (though I know it now haha)

I first started off as an aerospace major during my undergraduate years, but after some unfortunate events, I ended up changing my major to computer science. The moment I saw my first "Hello World!" program run as a 19-year-old, I just thought it was pretty cool. I didn't know how useful such a program would be, but I just thought it was really interesting. Even after changing majors, I was still uncertain about my career path. This uncertainty followed me throughout my undergraduate years, causing me to drift through the coursework without fully embracing its opportunities.

It wasn't until I graduated, after hundreds of applications being sent, constant rejections, and empty responses, that I realized I had messed up. I didn't take it seriously enough, I didn't embrace any internships, I didn't network, and I didn't even take advantage of the learning experiences that were available to me. I was uncertain about my career path and focused on just getting my degree; I didn't realize what I missed until it was too late.

That post-graduation realization became a strong catalyst for everything that followed. I've worked multiple non-technical jobs out of necessity, doing whatever it took to make ends meet, just to end up realizing how much I truly love programming and technology.

I was hit hard, and because of what I'd missed, I was sent into a spiral. After "moments" of realization and other overwhelming feelings, I felt I needed to change. I could not stay in this same position.

So I decided and made the effort to become the best programmer and learner I knew I could be. That's why I am now pursuing my master's degree in software engineering (focusing on AI) with complete clarity regarding my goals; I am determined to make the most of every opportunity. Every advanced concept I tackle, from machine learning algorithms to complex system architecture, represents not just learning but an active challenge towards my career trajectory.

Today, I approach every project, every line of code, and every learning opportunity with the passion of actually loving to program, but also with the wisdom that comes from understanding how precious these chances are. That combination of rediscovered purpose and hard-earned perspective has become my greatest strength, driving me to not just catch up with where I should have been, but to excel beyond what is possible.