When David Velasquez’s parents emigrated from Nicaragua to the United States, they were dropped off at a gas station in California. They spoke no English, had no family or friends, and could not afford clothes or diapers for their young children. Finding work was a challenge as his mother and father have a a fifth- and third-grade education, respectively. David's father stood on the street corner to pick up jobs as a day laborer to earn income for his family.
I got involved with an organization that tried to improve access to medical care. This was personal to me as my family and I experienced homelessness. I realized a degree in public policy would help me design and deliver better health care systems. I also did work in the C-suites of hospitals and nonprofits across Boston. I noticed that the people making decisions were familiar with business. I wanted to be comfortable having these discussions as well.