Jairo Josué, 18, is in his second year of college at the Universidad Nacional de El Salvador where he is studying Engineering in Computer Systems.

To make it to class every day, Jairo leaves his home in El Espino at 4 am and returns around 3 pm. He lives with his mother – a homemaker, his father – a driver, and a younger brother.

We asked Jairo to answer a few questions to help you get to know him better. Below are his responses!

What are some of your professional aspirations?

To study either business administration or systems engineering.

Why do you think your education is important?

With my education, I can have promising future and develop personally and professionally.

How has the crime/violence in this country affected you personally?

It’s affected me in that I can’t go to some places anymore because there are gang members in those places.

How do you think positive change can come about in your community or country?

For our country to see positive change, children and young people need to prepare themselves and learn certain principles and values in order to distance themselves from negative influences, because they are the future of the country.

What do you do in your free time?

I do homework, help out with housework, watch TV and play soccer.

What is your favorite music?

I like Christian music.

What are your best qualities?

I’m friendly, responsible and I always try to do the best I can.