Paul Marquez

Student, Associate of Science

"Thank you for Applying, But" Jobs I applied for but didn't get:

While I was a teen I applied for a job at Strossner's and Olive Garden because I was interested in the culinary arts and wanted to gain experience. Unfortunately, that very lack of experience was what closed the doors on me for both of those opportunities. Although it seemed like a blow to be rejected, I’m glad it worked out that way because who knows if I’d be working in the medical field now and on track to further my education in the field

Everyday "L's" of Life:

I tend to focus too much on work and school while letting time slip away and not making the most of it. I’d say it’s one of my major flaws and I would like to take more time to enjoy life and what it has to offer.

Things I swore I'd finish but never did:

When I was younger, I attempted getting into candle-making. I had a disastrous (and messy) time with making candles. I ended up giving away the expensive supplies I had bought because I didn’t want a repeat messy experience.

Memories I made while I wasn't studying/working:

• Going parasailing.

• various trips to Disney World (my favorite times being during Halloween).

• Taking my cat to get her picture taken with Santa.

• Seeing Lana Del Rey in concert.

TV shows, movies, and books I've enjoyed:

Charmed, You, La Casa de las Flores, Desperate Housewives (the sitcom), Devious Maids, American Horror Story, and the Harry Potter series.

Things I'm proud of that you won't see on my resumé:

• I taught myself to make various pastas from scratch. Even bought an authentic Italian pasta machine.

• Family and friends always turn to me when they want cupcakes and desserts.

• I have a green thumb.

Quirks that make me who I am:

I’m a Virgo; I’m very organized and a neat-freak. I take pay attention to detail. I love to make pastries from scratch despite living in a time where we can simply go to any store and buy mass-produced pastries.

Life events that made me stronger:

I think that the most impactful life event that made me stronger and transformed me into the person I am today was being able to accept myself and coming out. I was a completely different person due to being afraid and trying to hide myself from everyone. Once I came out, I was able to open up and become a brand new and improved version of myself that was less afraid of other’s opinions. This experience has shaped me into the empathetic and mature person I am today.