Growing up in a working-class, single-parent home in the Bay Area shaped me in ways I'm still discovering. My mom, working hard to keep us afloat, taught me the value of dedication and resourcefulness without even realizing it. Those lessons stuck.

As a kid, I was curious about everything. I'd flip through my sister's textbooks, try to befriend the neighborhood gopher (with carrots, of course), and read anything I could get my hands on. Looking back, I realize I was teaching myself how to learn – a skill that's been invaluable throughout my life.

This self-taught approach led me to pick up all sorts of skills: cooking (out of necessity at first, then passion), fixing bikes (cheaper than buying new ones), and eventually, coding. Each new skill felt like unlocking a new level in a game, and I was hooked on that feeling.

Today, I'm fortunate to work as a Full Stack Engineer at DoorDash. It's a role that constantly challenges me and feeds my love for problem-solving. But my interests go beyond just tech. I'm deeply passionate about sustainable housing, responsible finance, and finding ways to help others access the resources and knowledge they need to succeed. These aren't just hobbies; they're extensions of the values I grew up with – making the most of what you have and helping others do the same.

When I'm not at work or tinkering with side projects, you'll likely find me outdoors. Camping trips are my reset button – a way to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the world around me. There's something about sitting by a campfire that puts all the day-to-day stress into perspective.