The History of My Family: Part 1

Growing up as the youngest in a large South American family, I have seen, heard, and experienced events that have helped me with my decision to pursue a degree in professional communications. This decision begins with a story that my grandfather, Gilberto, shared with me years ago about the importance of higher education.  He grew up during the depression in Santiago, Chile and saw many families, including his own, struggle with finances and food rations.  Being the middle child of 4, there were times when he would go to bed with stomach pains from sharing his potion of dinner with his older brother and father.  After watching his youngest brother die from an illness, which could have been easily treated if they had money for a doctor and the medication, he realized he would have to study and further his education to help his family and himself if he ever wanted a future.  His determination and hard work paid off.  He received a full scholarship to the University of Santiago, Chile to study Mechanical Engineering.  After graduating with his bachelors, he later was offered a position at Allis Chalmers in the United States.  Within two years in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he was able to move his family to the United States, purchase a home, and give his children the life he never had.