Extracurricular Activities
Josephine County Emergency Communications (JCEC) is an Amateur Radio Emergency Services (ARES) group of licensed ham radio operators that provide emergency communications for Josephine County and Search & Rescue. I am a participant in University Transfer TRiO/SSS which is a program that helps aid in academic goals and advising. I have participated in cultural events such as but not limited to: TEDx Ashland, BBQ’s, Tie-dying, painting, and other events. I am responsible for teaching high school students proficient driving skills in a behind-the-wheel setting using the Oregon Department of Transportation Safety Division-approved curriculum. I enjoy volunteering for Nose Work Detectives, LLC and Brian Carvalho who coordinate, and host scent trials authorized by the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) which is the oldest governing body in K9 nose work. One thing I enjoy about these events is that many of the participants are retired service dogs. These events are a great way to keep these dogs active. My partner and I like to donate blood as frequently as we are able. We also invite friends to join us in the donation.
A Little Bit About Me
I am from Chester, California, a small town in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. I was raised in a single-parent household by my mother. Growing up I spent my free time exploring the outdoors. In high school, I became a musician which I spent a lot of time doing. After high school, I attended Roberto-Venn School of Lutherie where I was trained in the art of building and repairing stringed instruments and promptly moved to Los Angeles where I gained experience in the industry. After moving back home, I became a wildland firefighter for a couple of years in the summer. I began a custom guitar business which I maintained for four years. I moved to Oregon to pursue more opportunities for the business which led me to higher education. Currently, I enjoy hiking with my dog, amateur radio, and everything DIY.
Why I Chose Oregon Tech and My Major
Realizing I wanted to continue my education toward a bachelor’s degree I was recommended by numerous faculty and friends to attend Oregon Tech due to its high reputation and the success of graduates in industry. Learning that Oregon Tech is the number one return on investment college in the state is extremely important to me because my goal for attending college is to obtain a great career.
My Greatest Learning Experience At Oregon Tech
Changing my career has been difficult. I had gained ten years of experience and am very passionate about lutherie. If it was not for my perseverance, determination, and personal standards to see things through I may not have fulfilled the last of the custom orders while attending school full-time. My ability to be optimistic has helped me reframe my thinking toward a growth mindset. Instead of thinking I sacrificed my love of lutherie, I truly believe it has led me to pursue an education in electronics and now engineering.
My Plans After Graduation
I have learned to be willing to grow and understand that plans do not always work out exactly how you imagine they will. When I get asked what career I am working towards I have a difficult time limiting myself to a single career choice because I do not want to limit possible opportunities that can occur. I believe I am growing my education and skills to apply them to something great in the future. I am excited about summer internships which will help me explore different organizations and find a great career.