Why did you choose TKE?
Love, Charity, and Esteem. In simple terms, being a part of something bigger is the best thing you can do for personal growth. It’s always easy to serve your own interests and needs, but doing good and making a difference on the behalf of others is the most rewarding thing one can do in the long run. Those words could not echo more true, I can attest to that. Raising money and volunteering to raise funds for St. Jude was key to my character development and I’ll forever be thankful for the great charity we as Tekes serve.

Who influneced you most in your time in the Fraternity?
I met Frank Pellicer (649) during my time at the Student Programming Council and he was one of the kindest and genuine souls I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Although he was inactive with the chapter at the time, I got to know him well through our involvement at FIU. After his tragic passing in 2015, I have been motivated to live a life that he would be proud of and to leave a legacy by helping others. Frank made a difference in my life and I aspire to do the same for others.

Share your best college/Fraternity memory?
Having had many active involvements on the Homecoming Executive Board, SPC, Relay for Life, and more as well as TKE, I had many great memories from my days at FIU.

One of the many memories I remember was planning and running the Homecoming Concert as the operations director with the rest of the homecoming council. Doing the behind the scenes work, working with agents and artists, and getting to meet the artists (2Chainz and Lil Dicky) was an awesome experience!

What was the most important thing you learned in the Fraternity?
The core principles of what it means to be a TKE instill a strong moral compass in one’s self. The principles of love, charity, and esteem are the core building blocks to a solid foundation.

Describe the Fraternity in three words?
Growth, Charity, Legacy

Growth as an individual

Charity for a bigger purpose

Legacy as in paving a path for those who will follow in your steps

How did your education and/or Fraternity experience prepare you for where you are today?
Combing the hard earned degree from FIU as well as the communication/leadership experience from my collegiate involvements and TKE helped build me into a well rounded individual. Communication is just as important as book smarts and vice versa.

What is your greatest professional accomplishment?
After receiving a Bachelors in Atmospheric Sciences from FIU, I went on to obtain a Masters in Applied Meteorology from Mississippi State University. I also obtained a graduate certificate in Emergency Services/Disaster Management from the University of Florida as well as a graduate certificate in Climate Change and Sustainability from the University of South Florida.

My greatest achievement thus far is making my lifelong dream of being a Meteorologist with the National Weather Service become a reality in 2020.

What advice would you give current students or recent graduates interested in pursuing a career in your professional field?
Regardless if it’s something specific like Meteorology or a more general field like International Relations, persistence and perseverance are key. In an ever competitive job market and uncertain economic times, set yourself apart from the crowd. Live your truth and be confident as you walk on your path to achieving your goal.

What is something people may not know about you?
Aside from Meteorology, I’ve always been open to growing and pursuing opportunities over the last several years: I have been an apartment leasing agent twice, a certified personal trainer, a real estate associate in the State of Florida, and a travel agent.

Never limit yourself!