I was born in Englewood, New Jersey, and raised in New York City, where I spent most of my childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. At age 10, I lived in China for about three years, residing in Suzhou and Changzhou, both in Jiangsu province. This experience abroad sparked my curiosity about culture, language, and learning, and I continue to practice Mandarin Chinese as a multi-language learner.

During high school, I attended Christchurch School, a college preparatory school in Virginia. I was honored to be named Virginia Prep League’s All-State Football Player for the 2003-2004 season, which reflected my commitment to excellence and teamwork.

Mathematics became both my most challenging and favorite subject during my secondary education. I owe much of my passion for the subject to the exceptional math teachers, coaches, and mentors who inspired me to continue researching and teaching in the field of mathematics. With eight years of teaching experience, I have taught in Yonkers, NY, Brownsville, Brooklyn, and Staten Island, NY, at highly competitive public charter schools. Before my career in education, I spent 12 years in the apparel industry as a graphic applications specialist and production manager with leading design brands such as Ralph Lauren Corporation. During this time, I found fulfillment in empowering my colleagues with invaluable skill sets and applying mathematical principles in my work.

I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Production Management: Fashion and Related Industries from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Recently, I completed my MSEd in Adolescence Education: Grades 7-12 (Mathematics) at CUNY CSI while working full-time as an 8th-grade Algebra I teacher. Additionally, I develop curriculum for an ongoing STEM program at Columbia University. When I'm not teaching or researching conceptual applications in math, I take pride in spending time at home and outdoors with my wife, Ana, and our five adopted dogs: Alma, Chego, Sparky, Lana, and Mason.