Navigating through the world with autism, is like trying to beat a video game on the hardest setting while your controller's missing a button and your screen keeps glitching. Where speech struggles, language delays are the dragons of my life and relationships the prize I seek. Grab your imaginary virtual reality glasses and buckle up for the ride of navigating my life with autism. My journey with an autism diagnosis began from my lack of words. Let's call this level the Speech Lagoon. Words fled from my mind and mouth like elusive fireflies in the night. It was a labyrinth where words seemed to hide behind corners, playing a game of hide-and-seek. Life with me seemed like an endless game of charades, where I pointed and grunted until a secret cheat code emerged and I finally was able to speak. From grunts to words to echoing "Cars" movie lines and finally an original sentence. My linguistic journey felt like leveling up. These challenges made it challenging to develop relationships with my peers. Although I still struggle at times to find the right words to say, scouring my mind, not always replying to a question or struggling to quickly answer questions in class, many years of speech therapy and ravaged books, opened up a world of speech and play. The next level would be further developed in the classroom. It would provide new abilities and comprehension. In this world I have learned that each of one of us has to enjoy the journey at their own pace. Similar to the Minecraft universe where you build your world when you can, but time will still pass. I've experimented with various strategies to increase my language processing time to complete tests faster, improve my speech, and enhance my skills. Most importantly, I've realized, it's okay to be me. Learning to accept myself has helped me overcome societal challenges, one level at a time. Striving for improvement is essential, but the patience I've gained has been the key to showcasing all I can be. Being the son of a teacher, education has played a pivotal role in my upbringing, even though it was not always in the traditional sense. I was blessed with some teachers who were patient and willing to think outside the box for me. My motivation to continue my education is not just personal, it's about helping others facing similar obstacles with autism and beyond. I want to study computer science so I can create technology like the apps that helped me learn how to write on an ipad when I refused to touch a pencil. I want to start a non-profit and create technological solutions for those with autism and members of underrepresented minorities. If life gives you lemons, why not make lemonade?

Picture this: navigating through the world with autism, is like trying to beat a video game on the hardest setting while your controller's missing a button and your screen keeps glitching. Welcome to my epic quest, where speech struggles, language delays are the dragons I slay and relationships the prize I seek. Grab your imaginary virtual reality glasses and buckle up for the ride of navigating school with autism. In the first level, let's call it the Speech Lagoon, words fled from my mind and mouth like elusive fireflies in the night. It was a labyrinth where words seemed to hide behind corners, playing a game of hide-and-seek. Life with me seemed like an endless game of charades, where I pointed and grunted until a secret cheat code emerged and I finally was able to speak. From grunts to words to echoing "Cars" movie lines and finally an original sentence. My linguistic journey felt like leveling up. Although I still struggle at times to find the right words to say, scouring my mind, many years of speech therapy and playful word engineering ravaged books, opening up a world of speech and play. The next level would provide new abilities and comprehension. In this world I have learned that each of one of us has to enjoy the journey at their own pace. Similar to the Minecraft universe where you build your world when you can, but time will still pass. I've experimented with various strategies to increase my language processing time to complete tests faster, improve my speech, and enhance my skills. Most importantly, I've realized, it's okay to be me. Learning to accept myself has helped me overcome societal challenges, one level at a time. Striving for improvement is essential, but the patience I've gained has been the key to showcasing all I can be. Now, one of my latests triumphs, the social puzzle challenge. Where connections are as rare as winning the lottery. Picture me, a detective, solving the friendship mystery one awkward encounter at a time. Meanwhile, patience and perseverance continue to be my power boosts through life. My motivation to continue my education is not just personal, it's about helping others facing similar obstacles. I want to create technology like the apps that helped me learn how to write when I refused to touch a pencil. I want to start a non-profit and create technological solutions for those with autism and members of underrepresented minorities. If life gives you lemons, why not make lemonade?

At the age of 4, I received a diagnosis that would become my superpower, autism. While this condition presented daily challenges, it also granted me a unique advantage in the world of technology. My heightened visual acuity and unwavering focus became my secret weapons, propelling me toward success in the digital realm. As a child gaming apps helped me increase my skills in writing, reading and eye contact. The deeper I immersed myself in the gaming universe, the more I uncovered the potential it holds to help others. Through my research, I’ve learned of apps like EndeavorRX, which is the first FDA-authorized video game to treat ADHD. The prospect of harnessing my passion for gaming to serve the purpose of creating technology that helps people with special needs fills me with excitement. I am aware that as a Latino with autism in tech, I will be in the minority. I hope my unwavering passion serves as a portal to a future where I can use my skills to make a real difference in the world through the use of computer science.

Minecraft has played a significant role in my life ever since I can remember playing my first video game. Without a dedicated gaming console I would use, I resorted to the 'Minecraft for education' free version of the game. At that time, I couldn't have anticipated that this seemingly simple game would evolve into an outlet, offering excitement and a platform for my sister, cousins and friends to develop relationships in a virtual world. As I embarked on the journey of crafting my Minecraft home, I found myself immersed in an experience of self-discovery within the game's vast landscape. This digital sanctuary, nestled within the boundless world of Minecraft, helps the promise of limitless possibilities. Each expedition transformed into an adventure, filled with the thrill of resource gathering, the refinement of crafting skills, and fierce battles. These adventures lead to the ability to level up. Leveling up in Minecraft symbolized personal growth and the rewards of hard work. It encourages players to explore, learn and adapt to the game's challenges. It gives a sense of achievement when I reach a new level or enchant a powerful piece of equipment is both exhilarating and motivating. What resonates with me in the combination of home construction and leveling up in Minecraft is the harmonious synthesis of these two pursuits. Building a home in the game extends beyond the digital walls and roofs, it's about creating a sense of belonging and safety within a virtual world. The virtual home became a place of comfort and familiarity, a retreat from the outside world. On the flip side, the concept of leveling up represents the dynamic nature of Minecraft. It encapsulates the constant pursuit of self-improvement and the willingness to face challenges head-on. This aspect of the game recognizes the fundamental understanding that growth and process are essential facets of any journey, whether it unfold in a virtual or real-world context. Both of these encapsulate the essence of what it means to embark on a journey, build a life and strive for improvement. Minecraft offers a limitless canvas for these aspirations. In real life, often we limit ourselves. In the pixelated world of Minecraft, there are no limits, opening up ourselves and our mindsets to limitless possibilities.

What motivates me to actively participate in community service is a strong belief in the transformative power of giving back. My upbringing in a family that highly values service has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility, not only to my local community but also to a broader global context. The examples set by my grandparents, who served as missionaries, and my parents, who consistently use their skills to assist others both professionally and personally, have significantly influenced my dedication to community service. One notable initiative that exemplifies my commitment to community service began during my freshman year, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. I initiated a program aimed at teaching English to children in an underprivileged area of the Dominican Republic. This particular community holds a special place in my heart due to its connection to my grandfather's upbringing, since the program helps children from my grandfather's hometown in the Dominican Republic. Along with fellow high school students, we provided English language instruction through phones with the whatapp app and google slides. This endeavor expanded my perspective on what it means to be part of a global community and reinforced my determination to bridge educational gaps.d In the coming years, my dedication to these students in the Dominican Republic remains unwavering. I am committed to transitioning our online English language program to an in-person setting, with the broader goal of enhancing the digital literacy skills of local teachers. By equipping educators with the tools and techniques to harness technology effectively, we can facilitate more dynamic and tailored instruction. This endeavor holds particular significance for me, as I have personally experienced how certain apps and online tools can be transformative for skill development, even in the face of learning challenges. I hope that by fostering open communication and providing access to technology, we can help identify and address learning disabilities in underserved communities, thus expanding educational opportunities. In addition to my international efforts, I have actively engaged with my local community by co-founding the Latinos Club at my high school. Through this platform, we have created impactful videos that stimulate dialogue within the Latino community, celebrate positive Latino role models, and highlight college opportunities. The reach and influence of our content, particularly on platforms like TikTok, have showcased the immense power of technology as a tool for advocacy and awareness. Furthermore, my dedication to service has found enduring expression through my active involvement in my church's preschool program, which began in the 6th grade. This sustained commitment highlights my unwavering devotion to making a positive difference in the lives of others, emphasizing that the desire to serve transcends age boundaries. Ultimately, my motivation to engage with my community is rooted in a profound sense of responsibility and an ardent desire to empower underrepresented communities, especially within the tech industry. I am determined to translate these experiences into concrete actions that create more opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds to thrive in the constantly evolving tech landscape. My journey represents an ongoing commitment to growth, learning, and service, and I remain resolute in my dedication to making a lasting and meaningful impact on the world.

My dream version of my future self is a tech industry leader who uses their expertise and passion for service to create inclusive opportunities and empower underrepresented communities while continuing to foster creativity and skill development through technology.

How old were you when you first beat your parents at a video game? I was five and it was a glorious day when I legitimately beat them in Mario Kart. From a young age, I have been obsessed with using apps, gaming online, and other types of technology. I even learned how to write using an app from my parents’ old iPod. Ideally, my passion for technology will lead me to a career in a tech-related field in computer science where I will be in a position to help people. I have seen the benefits of using technology to help others. When the pandemic hit, I was able to grow more in my technical skills and it allowed me to teach English online to kids from an impoverished area of the Dominican Republic. I have been a volunteer with the kids' ministry at my church since I was in 6th grade so I knew being able to relate with the children would not be a problem. Yet, I didn’t realize all of the challenges I would face due to the lack of digital literacy and technology access for the children and their parents. On the first day, I had a parent that didn’t even know how to join my zoom on the computer, I said “click on the link I sent you”, something I took for granted as a simple skill, such as clicking on a link, was a challenge for this parent. Simple things, like the security picture that comes up asking to ‘click on all the cars in the picture’, were challenging because neither the parents nor child had ever turned on a computer before or used a computer mouse. Technology can be a source of empowerment that can help break down barriers, which are keeping underserved communities from achieving educational and financial success. The pandemic widened the gap between the “have and have nots”. Children in affluent homes, for the most part, had the tools to achieve and learn during the time of “pandemic learning”. Yet, children in low-income households had more challenges due to the lack of digital literacy and access to computers and/or wifi. My goal is to study computer science to be able to create technology that helps people in need. I hope to make learning engaging for kids of various language backgrounds through online games for learning. I also wish that through education and technology I can help people in high-needs areas create additional sources of income for their families. I desire to create initiatives that give access to resources, reduce bias, and foster collaboration to help individuals succeed. I hope I will be able to ensure many people have an opportunity to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society.

How old were you when you first beat your parents at a video game? I was five and it was a glorious day when I legitimately beat them in Mario Kart. From a young age, I have been obsessed with using apps, gaming online, and other types of technology. I even learned how to write using an app from my parents’ old iPod. Ideally, my passion for technology will lead me to a career in a tech-related field in computer science where I will be in a position to help people. I have seen the benefits of using technology to help others. When the pandemic hit, I was able to grow more in my technical skills and it allowed me to teach English online to kids from an impoverished area of the Dominican Republic. I didn’t realize all of the challenges I would face due to the lack of digital literacy and technology access for the children and their parents. On the first day, I had a parent that didn’t even know how to join my zoom on the computer, I said “click on the link I sent you”, something I took for granted as a simple skill, such as clicking on a link, was a challenge for this parent. Simple things, like the security picture that comes up asking to ‘click on all the cars in the picture’, were challenging because neither the parents nor child had ever turned on a computer before or used a computer mouse. Technology can be a source of empowerment that can help break down barriers, which are keeping underserved communities from achieving educational and financial success. The pandemic widened the gap between the “have and have nots”. Children in affluent homes, for the most part, had the tools to achieve and learn during the time of “pandemic learning”. Yet, children in low-income households had more challenges due to the lack of digital literacy and access to computers and/or wifi. My goal is to study computer science to be able to create technology that helps people in need. I hope to make learning engaging for kids of various language backgrounds through online games for learning. I also wish that through education and technology I can help people in high-needs areas create additional sources of income for their families. My desire is to create initiatives that give access to resources, reduce bias, and foster collaboration to help individuals succeed. I hope I will be able to ensure many people have an opportunity to succeed and make meaningful contributions to society.

Have you ever watched the hurdle jumpers in the Olympics? Do you focus on the winner or does it hurt your soul when you watch men and women that trained from hours on end, trip and fall over a hurdle? I celebrate with the winner for their accomplishment like fellow Puerto Rican and South Carolinian Jasmine Camacho-Quinn did at the past olympics who won the second gold medal for Puerto Rico. Yet, 4 years earlier, she was the runner who fell at the last hurdle and didn't win. The reality is that on paper, it's easy for someone to make an assumption or generalized who they think I am. It doesn't show my daily challenges, little things like striking up a conversation with a classmate, is a struggle. I regularly have hurdles to jump, sometimes I overcome those adversities and I am successful and sometimes I fall. On paper, I fit many labels like Latino, West Indian, Christian, autistic, honor student, etc. Each one gives me different skill set and determination to work hard to overcome the challenges I face daily. Most people might speak about a temporary difficulty or one challenging experience, but my challenges have evolved over the years. My greatest hurdle is my autism. In part it is a “super power” that allows me to visualize certain concepts easier, but for the most part it is a challenge to catch up with my peers on an academic and social-emotional level. Looking at my picture, you can't see the challenges I have faced most of my life from speech delays, motor skill difficulties, difficulty with social interactions, etc. I don't process information as fast as my peers and simple assignments that take them 30 minutes to complete could take me 2-3 times longer. What I have learned through my challenges is to be like Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, to get back up, try again and keep going with grit and determination. Regardless of my challenges, I know the importance of my story and helping others. Currently I volunteer with children at the church and also teach English only to kids in the Dominican Republic through zoom. I have been able to connect with them and use technology to help kids learn. I have been passionate about technology since I was a kid. I struggled with my speech and fine motor skills, technology helped me overcome many of those obstacles and struggles through the use of various apps. Technology has had a powerful and positive impact on my life and I would like to use those skills to develop new technology to help those with disabilities and those in underrepresented communities. My goal is to study computer science and business to develop the tools I need to help others belong and overcome their difficulties. If I can design a game, that helps a child like me, all the hard work will be worth it.

Have you ever watched the hurdle jumpers in the Olympics? Do you focus on the winner or does it hurt your soul when you watch men and women that trained from hours on end, trip and fall over a hurdle? I celebrate with the winner for their accomplishment like fellow Puerto Rican and South Carolinian Jasmine Camacho-Quinn did at the past olympics who won the second gold medal for Puerto Rico. Yet, 4 years earlier, she was the runner who fell at the last hurdle and didn't win. I regularly have hurdles to jump, sometimes I overcome those adversities and I am successful and sometimes I fall. In our society I fit many labels that can be seen as hurdles, Latino, Christian, Autistic, etc, yet I work hard to overcome them. My greatest hurdle is my autism. In part it is a “super power” that allows me to visualize certain concepts easier, but for the most part it is a challenge to catch up with my peers on an academic and social-emotional level. People can't tell from looking at my picture the challenges I have faced most of my life from speech delays, motor skill difficulties, difficulty with social interactions, etc. From interacting with me, most people don't know I have autism, but it is due to a lot of hard work over the years. I don't process information as fast as my peers and simple assignments that take them 30 minutes to complete could take me 2-3 times longer. I have overcome a lot of my challenges with autism by having to regularly step out of my comfort zone, through grit and determination, I continue to get back up and persevere. Regardless of my challenges, I know the importance of my story and helping others. Currently I volunteer with children at the church and also teach English only to kids in the Dominican Republic through zoom. I have been able to connect with them and use technology to help kids learn. I have been passionate about technology since I was a kid. I struggled with my speech and fine motor skills, technology helped me overcome many of those obstacles and struggles through the use of various apps. Technology has had a powerful and positive impact on my life and I would like to use those skills to develop new technology to help those with disabilities and those in underrepresented communities. My goal is to study computer science and business to develop the tools I need to help others belong and overcome their difficulties.