I like to think of myself as a hard worker. I believe that anything is achievable if put your mind to it. As long as you don't give up, you can make any dream come true. Now, you’re probably thinking, “How many Rocky movies has this guy seen?” As much as I love the works of Sylvester Stallone, I can say that my true inspiration comes from the work ethic that I’ve seen from my father. It is my dad’s ability to consistently reinvent himself by working on or learning something new that makes me believe that anything is possible.

My dad came to America more than 30 years ago from the west African country of Cameroon with hopes of creating a better a life for him and his family. Determined to succeed, he went to school in Pittsburgh and graduated as one of the top students in his class. He was then able to get a job as a Cameroonian ambassador to Governor of Ohio. After his time working for the governor, he created multiple successful businesses and helped to make sure that more of his family could come to America and have a better life. Although my family has seen a lot of success from my dad’s hard work we have also gone through some pretty tough times. But no matter how bad things got my dad always managed to get us through it. A few years ago, he decided to go back to school and get his doctorate. Last year, he got a degree and become Dr. Ngu. After getting the degree, he became a professor teaching at a few colleges.

But he wanted more.

So, in just six months, he learned all he could about Computer Programming. Three months ago, he landed his dream job consulting for the government in D.C. and life has never been better.

The feats that my dad has been able to accomplish are truly amazing but I really don’t think he gets the credit his disserves. He has made a positive impact on so many peoples’ lives but, because he makes it look so effortless, I feel like many people to take him for granted. But then again, I feel like much of the work that all good fathers do is often taken for granted. Working to put a roof over our heads, putting us through school, and protecting us from danger are some many of things that are expected from a father but they are not necessarily obligated to do any of it. In fact, there are many kids who grow up with (or without) fathers that do none of these things. I want my Dad to know that all that he has done and continues to do is extremely appreciated. Every day he inspires me to be my best self. He has set the standard so high of what a real man should be and I hope that one day I can make him proud of my own accomplishments.

Dad, I love you and today, just like every other day, I am truly lucky to be your son.