My path in IT began in 2015 when I needed a computer. I asked my friends for their advice, but they suggested something that sparked my curiosity: “Why not build your own pc?” That idea sent me to the library to check out books on the related matter, and I did my research online. I discovered the PCPartPicker website, which walked me through selecting which parts I need, their compatibility, and overall budgeting the build. The process was both challenging and exciting! I loved problem-solving, troubleshooting, and powering on the first PC I had ever built. My biggest struggle throughout the process was finding every power connection needed and ensuring I had all the correct cables. That first project made me realize technology wasn’t just something I used daily; I wanted to understand, build, and improve on it as a career.

After switching my major at San Juan College, I formally began studying Information Technology and earned my Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology in May 2025. Along the way, I also earned certificates in Network Support 2025 and General Education 2021. My academic journey in IT has introduced me to fundamentals like network infrastructure, security, and cloud technologies. As well as learning in scripting, databases, and operating systems.

In addition to my studies, I worked at the Farmington Public Library for nearly a decade, where I advanced from patron services clerk to technician to supervisor. These roles shaped much of who I am today. I loved bringing ideas to my department, thoroughly training staff, troubleshooting accurately, and creating a welcoming environment for the Four Corners community.

Speaking of community, I really enjoy volunteering! One of my best job-shadowing experiences was volunteering for San Juan Regional Medical Center from my first year until my senior year of high school. I accumulated over 650 hours working in various departments in the hospital, such as the Information Desk, Surgical Floor, Cardiac Cath Lab, and the Cardiology Clinic.

The last event I want to talk about that made me love science and technology was participating in science fairs while growing up. My most successful year was conducting DNA-extracting experiments on 52 human subjects. I hypothesized that smokers would have the homozygous recessive genotype of the PTC gene and thus couldn't taste the bitterness of cigarettes. I was awarded to go to ISEF 2012 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the first alternate in my region. It was one of my most significant accomplishments in high school and one of the most memorable events, as I met young leaders worldwide showcasing their experiments and results.