A person does not need several years in order to realize that he or she has been blessed with many opportunities for success. In my case, I am in total debt to the faculty, staff, alumni, and students, of Hayes. Already, a semester has elapsed and my college courses couldn't have gone any smoother. Hayes has provided me with a foundation that is sure to last me for the rest of my life and beyond.

As a student of Hayes I was always an active member of the student body which helped to expand my curiosity in many fields and increase my overall knowledge. The Cardinal Singers under the direction of Mrs. Lorraine Nanko helped to initiate an enduring passion for music and the performing arts. S.W.A.T., initiated by Mr. Frank Mosco, gave me much appreciation for the opportunities that were given to the students by past Alumni. I continue in that tradition by offering my time and service in A.C.T.

Currently, I am majoring in Biology in C.U.N.Y. at Lehman College's Teacher Academy with full scholarship, fellowship, and internship components. This program initiated in the Fall of 2006 with a focus to train math and science teachers. This gives me an opportunity to share the principles of Hayes with others and to inspire them to succeed.

As I revisit my alma mater, it is constantly changing to provide its students the resources needed for success: the Monsignor Graham Fine Arts Wing, the Scorsese Media Room, the Physics Computer Lab, and the Duffy Field. But exactly how does Hayes afford such massively expensive upgrades? The answer is simple: the gratitude of the Alumni, people like you and me. The Alumni reminisce and make it their resolve to make sure funds are available for such undertakings and also to keep tuition low - the lowest in the archdiocese.

Hayes has provided me with so much. "To whom much is given, much is expected." As I continue to utilize what I have learned at Hayes to further my education and career, I am making sure to keep my ties with Hayes alive. Even though I am willing to give back to the school right now financially, I may not be ready and I am sure that many of us are in the same situation. It may be good to get into the habit of giving even with a small donation of your time and service.

Personally, I continue to give back through my involvement in A.C.T. - Alumni Caring for Technology. As a founding father in S.W.A.T. (Students Working and Advancing Technology) - ACT is a natural progression of that service. The getting is in the giving and I still get back so much through my involvement with the school, the relationships I have established, and being able to see first hand how my help directly benefits Hayes now.