Where did you grow up?
Lynn Massachusetts and Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic
What was your experience before coming to Salem State?
I attended diverse high schools both in Santo Domingo and Lynn. It gave me the opportunity to meet and befriend people from all walks of life and from all over the world.
Why did you decide to attend Salem State?
I wanted to attend a school that was near my family, affordable, and that offered great amenities to commuters. Salem State checked all three of those boxes!
What made you choose the major that you did? Did you consider any other options?
My major was undeclared my freshman year. I took introductory political science classes with Professor Daniel Mulcare and Professor Kanishkan Sathasivam and their passion for politics and discussing how our world works was obvious. That passion seeped into me. An excitement to discuss politics and world events formed in me soon after taking those classes and I enrolled in the political science department by the end of my second semester. I also harbored an interest in geography and mapping our physical world. For some time, I considered getting into GIS, but ultimately, I followed my heart to political science.
Were you a part of any groups or clubs on campus? What impact did they have on your post-grad life if any?
I was involved with MASSPIRG during my sophomore year. MASSPIRG encourages you to canvass on campus and organize fellow students. My time with them boosted my confidence and helped break down those social inhibitions that can prevent you from putting yourself out there. Those are must have skills for someone active in the community as an organizer.
What classes or faculty members had the greatest impact on you?
The vast majority of my political science classes were with faculty members: Daniel Mulcare, Vanessa Rouget, Kanishkan Sathasivam, and Guy Bellino. They each had their own approach to teaching, which forced you to think about topics in a unique way.
Was there a specific out-of-classroom learning experience that was especially significant to your career preparation?
Yes! My internship with the city clerk's office doubled as my first job with the city where I learned a lot. Those few months when I assisted in the carrying out of a state election was the beginning of my career.
What was one of your favorite moments at Salem State?
I'm not sure "favorite" is the right word, but the excitement around the 2016 Presidential election stands out. Civic participation and political buzz peaked at the time. A moment in particular was when our new (at the time) President John Keenan, joined us students for a live watch party of presidential debate.
What was your favorite activity or event that you attended?
Voterpalooza during spring semester was a blast. They had yard games, food, plus all the different groups on campus.
What has your journey looked like post-graduation?
So, I continued my journey with the city of Salem. I remained in their elections department for another three years. I also worked for the Salem Housing Authority during the peak of COVID.
In December 2021, I joined the office of Mayor Driscoll as Constituent Services Director. That role has been a rollercoaster of a ride, its included management, community organizing, and director service all in one. Working for, at this point, three different mayors has been the opportunity of a lifetime.
In late 2022, I also joined a local advocacy organization, the Latino Leadership Coalition. We've advocated for change on behalf of Salem's Latino residents and held our leaders accountable when issues arise. I currently serve as the group's President.
In my personal life I married a fellow Salem State University alum from my 2018 class, Annah.
What is your favorite thing you have done post-graduation?
I've been fortunate enough to travel more around the United States.
What advice do you have for prospective students thinking about following in your footsteps?
Students should actively seek opportunities to work or volunteer with a government agency or one of its branches. We live in a state that is fragmented in the way it is managed. Check "employment opportunities" for government agencies that interest you. If there's an actively controversial topic in your community, find out who is involved and get in the game.
What do you wish you had known before starting college?
I wish I had known a nearby restaurant Fran and Diane's was going to close during the latter half of my time there! They had a great broccoli alfredo. I would've gone there every week if I known we'd only have them for a short amount of time.
What is your best advice for future students?
Your time at Salem State may be the last time you will be fully entrenched in an academic environment. Eventually after college, you will likely have other priorities. You should soak in all the information you possibly can.
What are you hoping to accomplish in the future?
These are precarious times for new people coming into Massachusetts. There are systems in our government to improve and perhaps barriers to lower. Ultimately, I'd like to look back and say that I improved peoples' lives. I'd be proud to simply know that I made a positive difference in the lives of my neighbors.
Where is your favorite place to study on campus?
The library was the best place to study by far. The amenities, peer support, and technology are all you need to be productive and get work done.