February 1, 2025
Today was a reflective day for me, and I spent some time writing down my thoughts and reconsidering the importance of documenting how I’ve been preparing myself for this next chapter of my life.
When the reality hit me that I would likely have to surrender to serve a 20-month sentence in federal prison, I knew I couldn’t approach this period passively. I needed to redefine what this experience would mean for me—and perhaps more importantly, I needed to figure out strategies to use the time productively, to grow, to learn, and to prepare for the next chapter of my life.
The research I’ve done in preparation helped me learn a lot about what to expect. Initially, I started to review the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) website and the Department of Justice resources. Those websites helped me understand what I could expect.
While reading the policies and learning about various reentry programs, I came across best practices for time management and personal development while incarcerated. That research led me to discover the Prison Professors Charitable Corporation. Curious about how they worked with people in similar situations, I reached out to ask if I could volunteer or contribute in any way.
Through my conversations with Justin Paperny, I realized there was an opportunity for me to give back while also preparing for my own growth. Justin encouraged me to lean into what I know best, which is construction. That conversation led to my current project—developing lesson plans to help others learn practical skills that could translate into careers in construction. I’ve drawn from my own story, reflecting on how I became self-taught in this field starting at just 16 years old. Back then, necessity drove me to walk to job sites, clean debris, and absorb everything I could from watching the professionals around me. Over the years, those humble beginnings grew into managing multimillion-dollar projects and leading a thriving business.
Now, I’m working to develop the lessons I’ve learned into something meaningful for others, especially those who may feel limited in their opportunities. My hope is to show that skills like project management, problem-solving, and hands-on expertise can pave the way to success if applied strategically.
This process of volunteering has been therapeutic, reminding me that even though my circumstances have changed, I still have the power to contribute, learn, and create value for others.
Another crucial aspect of my preparations has been creating a detailed release plan. The more I’ve learned about the federal system and its focus on my reentry, the more I’ve realized how important it is to show a proactive and intentional effort to use my time well. My plan outlines the specific steps I’ll take to maximize my personal development while in custody. I’ll document everything I do, from participating in educational programs to teaching the construction-related courses I’m building, and maintaining exemplary behavior to earn every possible day of good conduct time and First Step Act credits.
I am looking forward to writing journal entries to show every step of my progress. Once I surrender, I’ll send regular updates to my family so they can add them to the profile I’m building. This profile will become a record of my self-improvement efforts, and it will also be evidence of my commitment to live as a law-abiding, productive citizen after my release.
I want to show my probation officer—and the court, if needed—that I’ve taken this experience seriously. I’m even thinking about how this profile might support efforts that I’ll make for higher levels of liberty or even early termination of Supervised Release in the future.
What weighs on me most today is that I have a responsibility to follow through on this commitment. I know my lawyers will continue to advocate for me in the judicial system. But I’ve come to accept that what matters most is what I can control—and that’s my own behavior, mindset, and preparation.
I’ve also started to reevaluate how I approach reentry after I’ve served my term. I want to be better equipped than when I went in. To succeed, I need to focus on personal development throughout this process. I have a framework in place to guide me, and I’m confident it will keep me on track.
The idea of keeping a journal isn’t new to me, but the purpose behind it has evolved. This project will help me stay accountable. Eventually, this journal will show a story of resilience and hard work. I’m writing for my family, for the people who will assess my worthiness for liberty later, and for me.
I’ll continue volunteering with Prison Professors to do everything possible to advance the mission. One day, when this chapter of my life is behind me, I’ll look back on what I did with the time I had and feel proud of the effort I put into using the time productively.
