Past, Present, and Future

William Ruiz

 January 22, 2013

                                               

            My name is Will and I was born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y.  My mother raised the three of us, myself and two sisters, on her own in a four room apartment. Because space was so cramped I made lots of friends on the outside. The one great thing about growing up in my neighborhood was having my extended family so close.

            I moved to California twelve years ago and lived in Lake Arrowhead for nine years. I came to Oxnard three years ago on a business trip and decided that this city was a great place to start over. I love being close to the ocean and feel that Oxnard is one of California’s best kept secrets. The coastline is amazing and I get to enjoy it each and every time that I step out my back door. Moving here was one of the best decisions that I have ever made.

            I am currently working on an accounting degree at Oxnard College and plan to transfer to CSU at Northridge in 2014, to continue for a Bachelor’s Degree. I can honestly say that I love going to school. College was something I never thought was possible for someone with my background. It’s been real though running my own business and juggling a full-time school schedule but my faith has helped me through some really trying semesters.

            I have been blessed with a second chance at life and I plan on becoming the first person in my family to receive a four-year college degree. I have turned into someone that my family respects and admires. I cannot tell you how rewarding it is to know my future is brighter because of my decision to attend college. I look forward to working as an Accountant and to living the American Dream. I enjoy mentoring young people and hope to show the children in my family that education is a sure fire way to get out of the Hood.