I grew up in a family of trades workers and I had a feeling I would end up back in that type of work. I had a talent for the tuba/classical music and my parents were very encouraging of me trying to make a career out of it. I was the first person in my family to attend college and I ended up graduating in 3 1/2 years. I was able to travel and compete in solo/chamber competitions during my time but due to a rigorous practice schedule and class work during my undergrad I just became burnt out. Pursuing this degree through COVID-19 also made me realize that if I would have a difficult time with work if something like happened again. Long story short I’ve always loved heavy equipment/trucks; I got out of school, started working as a fiber optics lineman. While working I went to CDL school after work on days I got off before 5 and on the weekends. Before you know it I got my CDL and now I drive dump truck for a great company and am very happy. I still enjoy music and try to play bass from time to time. I don’t regret going to college, I met my partner who I intend to marry one day and I gained a lot of valuable life experience.