Would you please tell us a little about yourself and your business experience?
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. I grew up in Venice Beach area of LA and loved the beach vibe as a youngster. To this day I still enjoy taking a walk on the boardwalk. An ideal day would be to take a walk with loved ones.
I joined the US Navy at age 22 to “see the world” in 2002 and that I did. My boyhood dream was to join and serve in the military. I was Inspired to join by watching war movies and documentaries. While I have enjoyed many war movies, my two favorite war movies are “Blackhawk Down” and “My Brothers War.” Platoon was also very good.
I Served for five years and worked my way up from a Deck Seaman to a Gunner’s Mate.
My favorite military memory was many, but to pick one would be sailing into Norway during deployment and seeing Norway up close for the first time was, “pretty awesome.”
How are you involved with the Polk Institute?
I am a member of Pi Cohort-2 program. I am the CEO & Founder of Salty Sailor and working on the development of a video game that specializes in accessible hardcore first-person shooters (FPS).
Please tell us one of your best success stories.
Pulling into Croatia aboard the USS Hue City (only ship named a battle in Vietnam) and experiencing the culture of Croatia was amazing. Aside from the beautiful women, the environment, and friendly people. The food was good, and the cost was better. I remember standing guard shack and one of the Croatian soldiers taught me how to talk to Croatian women.
What is your top benefit of being with the Polk Institute?
The quality of training and education on a Tuition-Free basis is great. Everyone at Pi seems to care about me and my cohort members. Facilitators have real-world experience and transfer their knowledge and experience. Also, the comrade developed between my classmates is awesome. The bonding, mutual support of helping each other is amazing.
Would you please give us one of your favorite quotes?
“Treat others as you like to be treated” (The golden rule)