Hello, my name is Andre, I am a junior studying Fish & Wildlife Conservation Biology. Once I complete this degree I plan on heading straight to grad school, and then out to India or Africa to further my studies in snakebite, snakebite education, and pre-hospital education. I really love reptiles, but more specifically snakes. They are my whole world. I could talk your head off about them. I want to rid the world of horrible stereotypes about these magnificent animals and also the horrible practices people have when it comes to treating the Neglected Tropical Disease that is snakebite!
Before coming to CSU, I was a logistics specialist in the United States Air Force. I was fortunate enough to work with some pretty special folks and basically be the postmaster of the military. We opened and closed air bases around the world. I’ve loaded anything you can dream/think of on planes, from paper mail to people and organs, and helicopters! That career was short lived due to some injuries but now I can study my dreams.
I started college at 14 via a dual enrollment program that started up in my hometown and earned my associate’s degree before I even graduated high school. That ended up being one of the hardest but most worth it decisions I ever made. Then after a short trip to the military, I started school here at CSU. I chose this amazing school because of their world-renowned professors and their wildlife programs. I am excited to work with ALVS and support my peers because the mission and people here in this office are truly something special. This program (6-weeks to success) and the office as a whole played a huge role in giving me a jumpstart to getting used to being a student again. Sometimes all you need is someone who believes in you and a sense of belonging, and that’s exactly what this space (and some pretty dope professors) gave me.
In my free time away from studying my dreams, you will find me outside looking for snakes, plants, and being out in nature with my wife. I occasionally (anytime I’m not looking for snakes) play video games or spending time with my wife. She and these activities are what bring me joy.