What was your most challenging struggle?

I grew up in and around a lot of violence in my early 20's. I was an active member of neo- Nazi skinheads.  I don't remember how many times I got in trouble with the law. I ended up in jail a few times and served a year long sentence. Nothing was going right. I was a troubled soul. 


How did you cope with it?

I started thinking hard about my life. I started putting things in perspective. I knew it's going to be extremely difficult but there were triggers that motivated me to leave this chaos behind. I decided to go to a local community college and registered at NOVA. I finished all my credits, transferred to Williams and Mary and got my degree in Political Science. Life is on track. I have a great job. I couldn't be happier. 


Knowing what you know now, what would you tell someone who is going through a similar situation?

Think really hard about your best interests. Do not be deterred by the work that's involved. 
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What was your most challenging struggle?

I came to United States from Poland with two suitcases and $100 in my pocket. I didn't know anyone. I knew I will have to figure it all out but I was up for the challenge. I wanted to finish my schooling and become someone. 

How did you cope with it?

I didn't have to cope with it. I accepted it. I knew I will have to go through this to accomplish what I wanted to accomplish. 


Knowing what you know now, what would you tell someone who is going through a similar situation?

[We got sidetracked and never made it to this question. Weronika, if you are reading this, shoot me an email and answer this question. ;) ]