About Me
I was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. I graduated high school in 2003, then went off to Japan a year later to serve a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Returning home in mid 2006, I’ve been in school full time since. I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Economics from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas in May 2009. I began the Economics Ph.D. program at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, in August 2009.
I was married to the girl of my dreams on May 31, 2008.
I have a hard time sitting still, and that’s not due to a simple case of ADD. Rather, I am generally interested in the most efficient use of my time, and I’m always striving to be more productive, whether it be by furthering my education, becoming more cultured, earning money, or whatever. Granted, I spend time with friends and family, but I tend to have a difficult time keeping my attention on purely “leisurely activities” for too long.
Specific enjoyments include, in no particular order: my wife Ashley, economics, politics, law, business, music, movies, exercise, health, food, and in general, learning about anything and everything. I enjoy making lists, and tend to be meticulous in keeping my life organized.
I feel like I get along with most people very well; in fact, I enjoy meeting new people and becoming acquainted with different cultures and ways of thinking. Once I feel slightly comfortable with those around me, I have a tendency of not sugarcoating my thoughts or feelings, and this characteristic, I’ve been told, can make me come off as too blunt or even rude. But it’s rarely my intention to hurt someone’s feelings, even when I disagree with them.
I consider myself an “above average” individual, though I admit a large part of that is due not to my inherent knowledge and abilities, but because I try to be tenacious at my undertakings.
I am an Eagle Scout, graduated at the top of my high school class, speak two languages (English and Japanese) and have lived out of the United States for an extended period, have run for political office (Nevada State Assembly), have started two businesses, have been involved in various political and community endeavors, and have consistently worked 20-30 hours a week while taking 15-18 credits per semester in my undergraduate studies.
My mid- to long-range career goals include attending graduate school, receiving a Ph.D. in economics, getting involved in either academia, governmental policy, or business consulting. My eventual goal is to be involved in politics and hold public office at the state or federal level.
But most importantly, I want my wife and (some-day) children to have an even better life, with more opportunities and more experiences (both culturally and scholastically) than I did.
Pictures below (click to enlarge):
Ashley and my engagement picture, taken March 2008.
Driving from San Diego to San Francisco at night without Red Bull might’ve meant certain death for everyone riding with me…
I lived on curry when I lived in Japan, and I still love the stuff. I make some awesome curry.
I love my SOCOM16, and am an avid gun owner.