I am originally from Belleville and graduated from Althoff Catholic High School in 2017. I attended Eastern Illinois University, where I played football and basketball, before transferring to Northwest Missouri State University and earning a bachelor's degree in Recreational Sports Management. I later completed an Associate in Applied Science degree in HVAC at Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC).

In addition to my educational background, I have served as a football coach at Belleville West High School and as a member of the campus patrol staff. I also serve as the West Campus Representative for the Teachers Assistants Council of BFT Local 434, where I advocate for and support my fellow members.