ABOUT

I was born and raised in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area.  As part of a typical Italian family, large gatherings, lots of food, and close, extended family were staples of my youth.  

 

During my high school Senior Project, I discovered and developed an interest in computing.  I had the opportunity to interview and “shadow” someone who worked in the field of computing at Carnegie Mellon University, and I produced a working program in Java.  This interview opened my mind to the opportunities available in computing, and convinced me that I wanted a career in this field.  

 

I was fortunate to have a successful high school wrestling career, which included a trip to the Pennsylvania State Championships and All-State Honors.  My wrestling and academic achievements provided me with the opportunity to commit to Drexel University to pursue my academic and athletic dreams.  I also had the opportunity to take a “gap” year after graduating from high school to train at the Olympic Training Center at Cornell University.  I jumped at this opportunity and spent my “gap” year living on the Cornell University campus, taking part-time college classes, training at the Olympic Training Center and wrestling at tournaments around the country.  

 

After my “gap” year, I enrolled as a student athlete at Drexel University.  Drexel University provided me with an opportunity to obtain an education at an elite academic institution while competing as an NCAA Division 1 athlete.  As a student athlete, I was required to balance a schedule that required me to spend thirty (30) to forty (40) hours per week training, practicing and competing as a wrestler with a full academic schedule.  I am proud that I learned to balance these challenging demands, while achieving Dean’s List and working three (3) jobs gaining incredible experience.  At Drexel University, I narrowed my interest in computing to Information Systems and, specifically, User Design/Product Design.  I also minored in Business Administration. 

 

I am a good communicator.  I work well as a member of a team or on my own.  I like to learn new things, and I have learned the significant value of time-management.