Eventually, a better job and better money management helped me to transition from the laundromat bathroom to an apartment. I was thankful for the freedom of opportunity our America provided me. Yet, housing wasn't the end game for me when it came to achieving my version of the American Dream.

At 19, I enlisted in the U.S. Army. Those who understand the rank and structure of the military, will appreciate that as an E-1 in the light infantry, my experience of walking the streets of my hometown with my possessions on my back would come in handy as an infantryman. The Army was my opportunity to fight for our freedoms while also creating a path for my own American Dream. Through hard work, tenacity and education, my time in the Army saw my service evolve from the jungles of Panama, on the streets of the Los Angeles Riots, in the intersection of history in Berlin, to the heights of working in public affairs at a command level.

By the time I left active duty after six and a half years, my chest was adorned with a Meritorious Service Medal, two Army Commendation medals, three Army Achievement Medals, a National Defense Service Medal, and the Expert Marksmanship Badge, among others.

I also had my education from University of Maryland University College and had graduated from the Defense Information School. But I left the Army with something even more important than medals on my chest and academic credentials on my wall -- I had a path to continue my service by making a difference at home. Because even when sleeping in the jungles of Panama or the mountains of the Baltics, I had the power of my American Dream.

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