Half Guatemalan, half Dutch Antillean, and a true “yu di Korsou,” I was born and raised on the Caribbean island of Curacao, a cultural melting pot much like myself.

It was there that my love for culture, nature, travel, and artistic expression developed through experience and exploration.

Although I grew up a beach lover, I had an early fascination with ants, millipedes, and the uninhabited bush areas known as “mondi” that surrounded our home. I spent my time following lizard tracks, observing parakeet nests, and building secret hiding places among the cacti.

Growing up in an environment shaped by European, African, Latin American, and Indonesian influences—reflected in everything from food to music—as well as through family travels, I learned to appreciate both the natural world and the diversity of global cultures.

In ninth grade, I moved to Florida to begin my own version of “Saved By the Bell.” I finally experienced air-conditioned classrooms, campus clubs, and lockers—just like in the movies.

However, I was surprised to discover how far ahead my curriculum back home had been, particularly in mathematics, science, and foreign languages.

I quickly embraced Honors and A.P. courses, welcoming the additional challenge. That hard work eventually led me to the University of Florida.

At the University of Florida, I pursued a degree in Psychology with a concentration in Neuroscience and a minor in Anthropology. I also explored additional coursework in mathematics and fine art, and completed a semester abroad in the Netherlands—an experience I believe every college student should pursue.

After working as a scientific illustrator and helping manage a family business, I returned to school at Florida International University to pursue a second Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences.

During that time, I worked in a genetics laboratory, conducting research in population genetics, while continuing to study psychology and philosophy for personal enrichment.

It was there that philosopher and logician Dr. Xerohemona introduced me to Archimedean, and the rest is history.

At Archimedean Upper Conservatory, I have had the opportunity to organize and sponsor student clubs, contribute to the development of the college office and admissions program, and teach biology to exceptional students.

What once frustrated me about my early experience in American high schools has found a solution here, and I cannot praise enough the education available to students at this institution.

I remember returning home during high school and realizing that peers I had left behind were already reading literature in French while I was still learning basic grammar concepts, and discussing advanced mathematics that would not become familiar to me again until college.

Archimedean successfully combines the strengths of the U.S. curriculum with the rigor and challenge found in many European educational systems, creating a truly unique academic experience.

The curriculum explores enriching subjects not commonly offered in traditional high schools, including Modern and Classical Greek, mathematics taught in a foreign language, and philosophy.

These opportunities not only attract attention from college admissions personnel but also encourage students to develop maturity, strong study habits, and the ability to handle advanced academic material.

It is remarkable to witness students’ critical thinking skills and wisdom developing beyond expectations and at such impressive rates.

Through feedback from outside observers and by seeing students thrive during summer programs and throughout college, I am convinced that Archimedean provides a significant advantage in both local and global competition, opening doors and opportunities students may not yet fully recognize for themselves.

Personally, I believe there is nothing more empowering than, as the saying goes, “biting off more than you can chew, and chewing anyways.”

My hope is to help students discover the thrill of learning and the excitement of exploring the world around them.

I strive to continue being someone who helps future leaders not only build dreams but also make them reality. I am deeply proud to work at an institution where learning and growth are the priorities, and where the dedication, sacrifice, and commitment of the leadership, teachers, and staff make a meaningful difference every day.