Romeo Sarmiento and Milind Magoon

00:00 Hi. My name is Romeo. I'm 27 years old, and I live in Charlottesville. Today's date is March 31, 2023, and my conversation's partner's name is Milind

00:13 Hi. My name is Milind I am 21 years old, and I live in Virginia beach. Today's date is March 31, and my conversation partner's name is Romeo

00:25 Thank you both for being here. So the first question I want to ask is, why did you guys decide to sign up for one small step?

00:36 So it was at the activities fair, actually, I saw it, and I'm like, sounds interesting. I'm not a good debater or anything like that. I have no idea about politics and stuff. I just know we should be working towards helping people and stuff like that. I want to see, like, what the other side has to say, like, you know, why that isn't the case and stuff like that. Not that they're wrong. I just want to know what they feel about it.

01:02 Yeah. For me, I heard about one small step through some peers, but I'm also in the public service pathways program, so I came across that because that was on their newsletter. I wasn't able to participate in any of the other public service weeks events, so this was kind of my way of participation. But to get deeper into it, I think having those conversations is, whether it's political or any sort of controversial conversation is worth having, because it's actually a big step if you're going out and having the courage to do so with, especially with somebody you've never met before. And being courageous about that, I think, is a commendatory. Awesome. So my last question before kind of handing it off to you guys is, you'll see that you have a copy of your partner's bio that you guys wrote about yourselves as an introduction. So I'm going to ask each of you to take a moment to read out what your partner has written, and once you've each read your partner's bio, if there are any immediate questions that come to mind, feel free to ask it, and then we'll kind of move.

02:30 Into more of the more formative memories.

02:32 So I'll let you guys take it away.

02:36 Hi. My name is Romeo. Should I. Should I introduce. I'm a first generation immigrant and college student. My family and I left the Philippines to seek asylum from government corruption. I was raised in northern Virginia and decided to join the Marine Corps out of high school. I was deployed three times over the course of seven years. The thematic impact I experienced throughout my life that has shaped me has been representation as an immigrant, a service member, and now a minority within a minority group of the collegiate population. I believe more than ever that everyone deserves an opportunity to have a seat at the table. That said, I am fairly moderate in my opinions, but my visceral experiences led me to have empathy, but not for the sacrifice of others.

03:32 This is from Milind I'm a first year at Uva. I'm from Virginia beach, but am an indian citizen because I was born in Dubai. I've always kind of wanted to help people, and three years ago, I had a stroke, which is why, instead of thinking about it, I want to put this goal into action. Now, do any questions sort of come.

03:57 To mind for you guys? And we're free to talk to each other.

04:00 Yeah.

04:01 About the biography. So you came from, like, were you born in the Philippines?

04:07 Originally, yeah.

04:08 So what made you want to join the Marine Corps? Pretty big.

04:11 I.

04:11 Pretty stuff. Yeah.

04:12 Yeah. So I. I'd never heard of the military. I have never had anybody in my family who served, and I was at the point in high school where, you know, I wasn't great, but I could have gone to community college and maybe, you know, barely passed or maybe even failed out. But I've thought about kind of, you know, I had to find a way for me to kind of get back to the country that welcomed my family in. And this was kind of thinking along the lines of serving the country that, you know, gave me. Gave my family the freedom to one leave from a terrible place and kind of start anew. But the reason why I chose the Marine Corps, well, I didn't. I didn't approach any other branch. A recruiter approached me, and then from there, it was, okay, this is something like that is bigger than myself and something I'm willing to do. If I were to go to college now, I don't think I'd be successful. So gaining that real world experience and maturity was the logical step for me. So that's why I decided to join. Yeah.

05:54 So, like you said, you weren't that, like, good of a high school student.

05:59 Yeah, I guess to elaborate on that, I was, you know, I didn't tell you.

06:04 I mean, like, you know, so. And you wanted to serve this country, but, like, why specifically, like, the military? There's other stuff you could do, like, you know, military. Why'd that come to you?

06:13 That's a good point. I've always thought about strength and discipline when I was in high school, but those two things were not attributes I had. And the military is one way for me to gain those attributes of strength and discipline. And so, you know, if you're familiar with the process, you usually sign up. If you're planning on going directly after high school, you have to go through this enlistment program where you go through physical training and you have to get through all the physical tests. And so that was a way for me to gain physical strength, but also, you know, building up some discipline in the way that I had to understand that, okay, I had to wake up at five in the morning to go on this three mile run with, you know, you know, 20 pounds on, you know, in a backpack. And so having that disciplined mindset allowed me to prepare myself, you know, for life after high school, I didn't know what I was going to do. I could have listened to my family and gone after a nursing degree or go into an ROTC program. But I thought this was a way for me to kind of curate my own experience as opposed to being told what the next step is for me. So instead of, like, you know, getting that pressure from family, I kind of, you know, realized that I could take my own path after high school. So that's. Yeah, I guess, in essence, that's why I chose the military over something like the peace Corps or done a mission trip. Military service was something that was, you know, like I said, wasn't something that I knew about. And so for me to do that and kind of be a trailblazer in that way, I was able to set an example for other people around me, not just my family, but even the friends who would eventually join because they knew somebody like myself who did, I was able to kind of guide them in that direction if they chose the military service route.

09:07 I'll let you ask some questions.

09:09 Yeah, yeah. And so you being an indian citizen because you were born in Dubai, are you choosing to stay as an indian citizen?

09:27 Probably not. My parents do, because, like, you know, in India, you can't have dual citizenship. You have to have one or the other.

09:32 Okay.

09:32 Their parents live there, their friends live there. But, like, I went there and, like, it's not that great, you know, which kind of, like, what kind of shaped what I think about stuff. Like, the government does not support their people at all. Lots of homelessness, lots of, like, there is shootings. Not mass shootings, but there are shootings, but it's closed down because there's so many other problems in anything like that. Like, you know, the other day, my mom's friend, her sister was getting married. A gunman went in, killed her sister, killed her sister's groom and her parents, like, you know, so, like, it's just, like, you know.

10:07 Yeah.

10:07 Like, that kind of background kind of, like, makes me, like, think about these. I know, like, it's not in America like that, but, like, makes you think about these things. Like, there is something, like, we should be able to do these kinds of things and. Yeah, I'm sorry, I forget your question.

10:20 No, I mean, it's. I was just curious whether you were leaning towards pursuing an american citizenship or going back to. To India and, you know, after college, per se.

10:34 No.

10:34 Yeah.

10:35 America. America is very nice. Like, there's, like, a lot of freedom and stuff to do, so. And, like, India is not my thing. You know, I wasn't raised there. I don't understand their culture.

10:45 So.

10:46 Yeah, stuff like that.

10:48 And I love to hear more about your. The unfortunate stroke that you had, if that's something you're okay with.

11:02 Yeah. So in 2019, I was actually a freshman in Georgia. And, like, so, like, the summer before, I was starting to have, like, balance problems and stuff. And, like, I thought it was vertigo. And I told my parents about it. They're like, they're doctors, too, so they're like, it's nothing. It's nothing. So I'm like, can I please see someone? They took me to a neurologist. Neurologist said, like, it's probably nothing. Then I was like, okay, it's probably nothing. I started getting better. Better. Went to Georgia tech, and, like. And I don't remember much because, like, I remember waking up in Virginia beach or something like that. But, like, apparently I had a stroke. And, like, you know, they're like, yeah, you were in emory for, like, three months. And, like, yeah. So, like, it kind of, like, shaped me a little bit. Like, I was like, I wasn't thinking about these kinds of things before, but now they're like, I'm kind of lucky that, like, I got all these resources and stuff, so I'm like, maybe provide something like that to others.

11:56 Yeah. So if you guys don't mind me jumping, I know you guys have talked a little bit about, like, your background, your family. So we like to spend some time talking about, like, formative memories and experiences. So there's a couple of questions that we always like to ask, and I'll encourage you guys to, like, ask each other that way. But, you know, if you look at part two, there's some questions. So if you guys don't mind asking that to each other.

12:24 Okay. Could you briefly describe in your own words, your personal, political beliefs.

12:32 Are we doing part three, or did you want to do.

12:34 Oh, my bad.

12:36 No, you're good.

12:37 Who isn't the most influential person in your life? What did they teach you?

12:42 That's a difficult question. I would say. I guess if I had to answer this right now, you know, without, you know, thinking about it for a longer time, I would have to say my mom. My mom is, you know, a strong person, and the stories that I hear from her, I mentioned in my bio that we had to essentially leave the country. My mom was the person who essentially glued, you know what? She was the glue of the family, despite losing the logistical, the logistics business, you know, she carried us through financially, and also as kind of a, you know, the person who would just maintain some sort of mental fortitude as well as emotional fortitude. You know, the biggest thing that she taught me was that knowledge is power, and you have to unleash it. And so those words kind of stuck to me because, you know, without sharing it with other people, you know, you can define what unleashing means, but, you know, knowledge is nothing unless you are willing to share it with somebody or out to the open. So that was. That's what I would say that she taught me, which is the biggest lesson in my life so far. What about you? Who's the most influential person in your life, and what did they teach you?

14:49 I would say, like, both my parents are, but specifically, I'd say, like, my dad. I know it's a cliche phrase, but, like, he's my. He's my rock, you know? Like, he used to, like, believe in, like, the indian stuff. Like, ah, you know, work your way through this, and then, like, this will happen for you. Work your way through that. This will happen. Like, he's changed in America. Like, you know, he cares for us. Like, you know, my. My mom, my brother and I, he, like, he really cares. Like, you know, and I saw that, like, you know, when he really cares about us, like, he did good stuff for us and, like, good things happen in our life because of him, and he's been willing to change over the course of his life, you know, if something's not working, like, he's not just gonna, like, stick in one path. He will make sure everything good happens for everyone else. Like, you know, and he won't quit. Like, he's not a quitter either. Like, me and my brother were quitters. We'll be really honest. He is not. He's. He's, like, he's, like, the best things will happen for you and I will make sure they'll happen for you, and, like, I will not stop until then.

15:48 Mm hmm.

15:49 So can you who. Wait. Can you recall your earliest memory of politics?

16:04 Yeah, I was too, too young to recognize this, but I think there was some sort of politics or bureaucracy involved when we were kind of, the family was going through, you know, experiences with government corruption. So my understanding was that, you know, we were in hiding at one point, and, you know, even the local police department was corrupt, and, you know, having to hide from them and knowing that they weren't, you know, trustworthy people gave me a negative idea of, you know, politics, even on the local level. But, yeah, I guess that's, that would be my answer. What about you?

16:58 Kind of an embarrassing answer. So, like, I used to go to elementary school in New York, actually, and that's when Barack Obama won the presidency. Everyone was like, oh, it's such a big deal. And I'm like, yeah, cool, someone won the. I didn't realize the first African American didn't realize anything like that. So, like, you know, but that's like. But aside from that, I guess, like, my first real political experience was, like, in high school I had a friend who was, like, a communist. So, like, I don't really agree with communism. He's like, ah, you know, we need to overthrow government, whatever. I'm like, nah, not really. Well, he's like, oh, you know, we need to help the people. You know, give them essentials, Medicare, like food, et cetera. They have to get educated. I'm like, I so believe in that because that's, like, back to my ideal of, like, helping people gain, like, the necessities and stuff. Like, not give them gold lamborghinis or whatever, but, like, you know, can they go to college? Yes. Yes, I believe in that. Like, and also back to India. Like, you know, lots of people don't get to get educated because, like, they don't. They can't afford, like, yeah, even though it's, like, cheaper than here, a lot cheaper. Like, they're a lot poor and, like, the government will not help them. So, like, you know, they're like, force, like, just live their life as it is. Like that. So. Sorry. No, you're good. Just real quick.

18:12 It's not exactly a structured thing, so you guys don't have to go in order if you don't want to. So if you guys say anything that piques your interest, you can go ahead and ask the question based off of that.

18:21 Okay, so just taking a question. Yeah, of course. What were you guys being persecuted for in the Philippines?

18:28 Yeah, that's a. That's a great question. You know, I. I don't know all the details, but my understanding is that the logistics company that my parents owned.

18:43 Were.

18:45 Were. I were subject to financial arbitrage. So, like, there was some, you know, accounting issue or whatnot, and there was a client that wasn't, you know, happy with it, and so they went into a lawsuit, essentially forced my family to go bankrupt and give up all the capital. That includes all the assets. And there is. Yeah, I think there was some sort of, like, organized crime involved. Again, I don't know the details. I don't know, like, what actually happened, but I could just remember, you know, one day we got raided, and there were vehicles in front of our house and took everything from us, and so kind of had to live with nothing at one point and remove ourselves from this state of feeling comfortable financially and having a, you know, everything figured out to, like, living in the villages and hiding from people. So that was pretty rough. But, you know, I don't want to think it's, you know, the worst situation. Definitely could have been worse, but I'm definitely glad I'm not there anymore. But I feel like it made me the person that I am today.

20:39 So can I ask a follow up question? So were you. I know you were under threat of, like, violence and stuff, but how much was that threat? Like, were there people with guns coming to your door or something like that?

20:52 Yeah, I could remember, you know, some. Yeah, I don't know the specific model and make, but, yeah, I think at one point, there was some sort of gun violence, whether it was pointing towards my mom, and, you know, I think they did their best to shield us away from that. So that was fairly traumatic. I'm still working on, like, actually going back in time and uncovering my past, and maybe that'll come out, because my understanding is that when you have traumatic issues, you tend to bury them. And so I'm still in the process of figuring that out.

21:49 Can I ask one last question? I'm sorry. Yeah. So is that threat still a thing right now? Can you go back to the Philippines? No.

21:58 Yeah. My mom always tells me that I shouldn't, so I shouldn't. I don't know. I don't know if this recording will reach somebody who will be dangerous enough to pursue me, but I hope it doesn't.

22:19 But who was the leader of the time when you were, like, persecuted?

22:22 I don't know that. I don't know. I mean, historically, it was, you know, between 2004 and 2005, I don't know who the president was at the time. But, you know, if my general understanding of the political environment was that, like, it was always on, you know, on the verge of martial law, so definitely not in the best political state per se when we were going through that. Yeah. If you guys want, you can start transitioning into the personal ideology section. I'll ask you some questions. So could you tell me about your personal political beliefs?

23:21 I personally, I don't care too much about politics. Like, you know. Yeah, Nancy. Close to that. I don't know. Like, Kevin McCarthy, I think is like, yeah, see, I don't care. It's like, you know, like, well, the things. I don't care. I just care, like, good things happen for people. Like, you know, I don't want to see, like, people. Like, I know it's like, it's rare here. Like, some people are on street, like, asking for donations, like, like, when you're driving a car, stuff like that. Some people don't get to eat. Like, you know, I don't think that should happen at all. I think, like, like, especially the us government, like, we're powerful enough to, like, do something about it. And, like, like, obama's, like, message was, like, change. And I was like, at the time, I was like, I didn't understand, but, like, now, like, now I'm 21, I get it more. Like, you know, yes, there should be change, like, you know, one way or the other. Like, I don't know, like, the method in which we should change it, but, like, there should be some change and there should be a good thing. It's like, having to be, like, everyone should be, like, you know, you work your way through everything. Like, you know, that was, that's very good. Like, not everyone is, like, you feel like, never can be a marine. Like, that takes a lot of stuff. Like, but everyone should, like, have, like, the basics.

24:33 Yeah. So, you know, if, you know, you're. It seems like you're an advocate for good, which is a good thing, but, you know, why is it that you're. You feel careless about, you know, what's happening on Capitol Hill just as long as, you know, the change is good? Is that where you're. The results are positive? Is that where you're more so, you know, concerned about instead of, like, who's creating this change or, like, how it's being created?

25:12 Yeah, I just hear about, like, the results. Like, I'll be honest, I'm a little bit impatient. I don't pay attention to it. So like, you know, oh, like, you know, there's like this many votes for this bill. I'm like, big whoop. It passed, though. You know, that's good. And like, you know, you know, Bernie Sanders, he came here earlier. I'm a huge fan of Bernie Sanders. Like, he speaks his mind and like, you know, that's what I see. He doesn't care about politics that much either. Like, you know, he goes and does it like, you know, he doesn't care. Like, ah, you know, I look good, I look bad, whatever. Like, you know, that's the kind of mindset. So what about you? Was there, oh, sorry. That was my question.

25:47 No, good, good.

25:48 So, yeah, what about your plot? Like, you know, it said in your bio that, like, you know, you want good things to happen to people, but, like, not the cost of other things. Like, what does that cost? What is that limit?

26:00 Well, it's, you know, I think about win win situations, you know, and that could be subjective, but, you know, for example, the idea of redistribution of wealth, you know, that's gonna come from people who are more affluent, and the people who aren't will receive that. And so I kind of see that as a natural imbalance. And attempting to balance that inequality is, I think there are some, some dilemmas that can cause, because that seems like a very logical and simple and pretty straightforward way of making sure that the impoverished people are well taken care of. But that also comes at a cost of impoverishing those who are affluent, albeit they'll probably still be affluent. I just think there are, you know, I don't know them, the ways in which to do that, but I think there's a better way. What are your thoughts?

27:23 Can I ask one more question?

27:24 Yeah, yeah, yeah.

27:25 What is that better way, in your opinion?

27:27 Oh, that's so, you know, instead of like, having to take from others to give to others who don't have it, you know, I'd argue a better way is to uplift those who don't have it in other ways. I think the way that promoting diversity, equity and inclusion, or in some cases belonging is a good way to promote, whether it's hiring, promote more diversity, I think that's a great way to do it. But at the end of the day, it comes at a cost, because at the end, you know, there are going to be those winners who end up getting the opportunity and there are the losers who don't. And so there's not really a better way to do it. Again, I think we live in an imperfect system and we're attempting to, you know, we're always attempting to fix it. I can't tell you the better way to do it. I think I'm more suggestive of that. You know, if we are self destructive of our society, that's, you know, that's a net negative. I'm always just hoping for the net positive or the win win situation. Yeah. What. I mean, what about you? I think, you know, is that something that you resonate with, or, like, are you thinking about it differently?

29:19 So, like, I don't have, like, much experience with this. Like, you know, I didn't grow up in India, but I've been to India sometimes and, like, see, like, the very impoverished people. I'm like, there's a guy who's the richest person in India. He pays zero taxes, and, like, he gets all the benefits. And I'm like, if this guy and, like, all the other rich people maybe gave a little bit, you know, maybe I could feed poor, you know, gopal on the side right there, he's, like, starving. Yeah, right? And he's a kid. Right. There was mom. And, like, all those scenes, like, you know, especially, I think, like, if, like, if I cause this guy to, like, go bankrupt, you know, obviously that'd be wrong. But, like I said, like, give a little bit, you know?

30:02 Yeah.

30:02 Like, I'm like, yeah, you can help feed people. You can help, like, make sure people's lives are not complete, like, trash, you know?

30:10 Yeah.

30:10 Not, like, give them, like, this lavish house or whatever, just.

30:14 Right. The golden Lamborghini.

30:15 Yeah. Just, like, just something to stay in. Just something to, like, keep their lives, like, stable, you know, next thing, like, yeah, I believe in you. Like, people should, like, like, work towards, like, getting up there, but, like, to get to a certain level, I think everyone deserves, like, the right to have that right.

30:35 Yeah, I hear that. I'm. I'm a proponent of that, too. If, like, you know the saying of, like, you know, give a man a fish, we'll eat for a day. Give a mandev, you know, a pole, he'll eat for the rest of his life because he's able to fish. Or, like, you teach him the fish, right? So give them those resources in order for them to succeed. But I think ultimately, it's on the person to do that, whether they want to or not. I think. I think. I like to think that I have the good faith in people that, you know, they are willing to succeed or do better, you know, from the previous case that they were in.

31:27 So, like, one more. Sorry.

31:28 No, this is completely fine.

31:30 So here's how I've seen America. There are resources which you need, right. But it's not readily available. Nor is it, like, sometimes, like, given to people. Like, I knew someone who's, like, very poor. She did not get Medicaid. She wasn't. She wasn't in that, like, level. She's almost there. And, like, I need someone else who, like, did get Medicaid. And, like. But she could afford insurance herself, like, you know?

31:56 Mm hmm.

31:57 So, like, if, like, the government, like, could extend its reach a little bit, you know? I think, like, that person is way too poor to afford insurance, but, like, couldn't get Medicaid initially. Like, they really had something, you know? And, like. Yeah, and I know, like, I think emergency room visits are free if you can't afford it. I'm not 100% sure, but, like, that's it. You know? Like, for my strip, for example, like, you know, I got taken to an emergency room, like, Emory's, right next to Georgia tech, but I didn't get taken there. Cause I thought I overdosed on drugs. So, like, I got taken to an emergency room, and they're like, ah, you know, doesn't look like anything, you know, whatever. Then my parents got there. They're like, he was not doing drugs. He was studying for midterms at the time. So, like, then they sent me to emory. Then turns out I had a stroke. But, like, the only reason they were able to do that, because, like, we have good insurance, you know? And so, like, I want, like, everyone have, like, the ability to kind of, like, do that. Yeah, maybe like, not. Not emory, but, like, something, like, they can get a little higher care, you know, to take care of problems like that.

32:58 Yeah. Yeah, I would definitely agree with that. I think, you know, I think the thing that I would struggle with the most is when, like, you know, we want. Or when I hear people say they want things to be better. Like, that is still subjective, and it's still dependent on their reality, on what is better. I guess, in your situation, receiving any type of care after something like that was definitely a really fortunate thing, but it's great that your parents were able to step in and they have the insurance to get you to the next level of care, to recognize that there was a stroke. Yeah, I think the whole, like, good, bad, evil, better, worse is such a. I don't know, it's. It's very complex to me, you know, because somebody who might be doing something for good is evil to somebody else. That's kind of why, you know, bringing this back into politics. I. That's why I mentioned that I'm fairly moderate things. You know, I think neutrality is one way you can appease both sides and you can cater to the needs of the people who are closer in proximity of you. You know, like, that's kind of how I think about it and how it relates to politics. What are your thoughts?

34:56 Oh, sorry. I was gonna ask your political views. Yeah, I said mine.

35:00 Yeah. So I'm fairly moderate. When I served, I was under the charge of, well, our commander in chief was President Obama, and I also served under President Donald Trump. Objectively, like, from somebody just noticing what it looked like, we received more funding when I was in. During President Trump's presidency. Now, great, that means more funding, more ammunition for the military. But, like, in the grand scheme of things, if you take that away from me and remove my identity from that, there are a lot of people who did not like that time that he was president. In my little vacuum of a space and experience, it benefited me. But in the grand scheme of things, looking outside of my own experience, it might have been hurtful to most people, even people in my family. I guess I'm not equipped enough to explain or defend my political views. I think I'm on the same boat you are in whatever the word good is. I'd like to see that in people and see that affect people. You know, I think the lack in confidence of people who create policy, past policy, is not bringing, you know, me, you know, any sort of positive ideas to what our political landscape could look like. So.

37:00 Sorry, can I ask a question? So, like, yeah. You said, like, like, from an outside view, you don't know, like, how good, like, increasing funding to the military view, but you were. You were in the battle zone, right. And stuff like that. So I think you have, like, the best kind of viewpoint. So, like, with, like, the funding of the military versus, like, you know, say, like, I don't know, medical care ish things. Like, you know, you, like, tell me, like, did that really benefit you a lot? Like, so much so. So, like, maybe you can't tell me objectively.

37:36 Well, I think, yeah, I just noticed an uptick in the experiences, the training, the emphasis on it. Even though we were going into a drawdown and, like, we were removing troops away, the. I think it all goes back into, like. Goes. It boils down into, like, culture. Like, for some reason, I didn't have that same feeling when President Obama was under office, but for some reason, I experienced kind of a better side of what it was in the military when Trump was in office, I don't think that that's because of who was in the office. I think it's just the way that it was being ran, and that has a lot to do with the macro, you know, maybe their strategy. Right. I think it was something that Trump wanted to do is increase funds, you know, for the budget, and somehow, some way, it trickled down into me getting more rounds in my magazines, and that's, that. That's the benefit that I saw. But you're right. Like, I think that it came with an opportunity cost because it could have gone somewhere else.

39:00 No, sorry, sorry. I mean, like, you, I'm just, like, saying you had the best viewpoint of the thing. You were actually in there. So. Yeah, so, like, what do you think personally? Like, maybe, like, I think, oh, no, that's way too much for, like, you know.

39:11 Yeah, I. I mean, since I've been out of the military, I've been out for, like, two years now. I mean, I don't want to see, you know, brothers and sisters going to war. The drawdown in Afghanistan or, like, the continuous deployments to the Middle east or Southeast Asia is kind of, it's a horrible thing to see, especially with the war in Ukraine. Like, I hate for Americans to be a part of that, so I'm not for that. But, you know, like, from my point of view, I don't want to see America go into war.

40:01 So do you think extra funding for the military causes America to, like, engage in more wars?

40:05 Yeah, absolutely. That's, you know, the funding that America or, you know, the government has, you know, supplemented for Ukraine is. It's a lot of money. It's a lot of money to bring javelins and missiles into a war zone. And it's because it's a. The big deal, right. It's this idea that, you know, we can't lose this war, so we have to be on the good side and fund them. And that has taken a lot of funds, time, effort away from other things domestically. So, like, if, you know, Covid happened, we kind of focused on ourselves, and then Ukraine happened, we stopped focusing on ourselves. So I'm not hoping for another thing to happen for us to, like, look inwards, but I kind of want to see an America that, you know, takes good care of itself so that way it can take care of other people. You know, you can't feed others with, you know, an empty stomach kind of thing. Um, yeah, that's kind of what I think.

41:33 I forget where we are. Do you ever feel misunderstood by people with different beliefs than you. How so?

41:44 I don't necessarily feel misunderstood. I I just think it's, you know, the information is incomplete. You know, I think understanding is on a spectrum. So, like, having conversations like this would, you know, create more clarity.

42:09 But.

42:13 Because I come off as somebody who's fairly neutral, like, I don't think opposing viewpoints of other people strike me as, like, you know, far left or far right.

42:31 Have you ever experienced doubt in your political voice?

42:43 You know, I think about doubt as a way, you know, if I don't really feel doubt, maybe I feel like I could be more involved in my own beliefs or creating my own beliefs. But other than that, I think I'm, you know, I feel confident about what I believe in.

43:17 And what, like, brought on this confidence. Like, is it your experiences?

43:22 Yeah, I think our experiences are great. You know, our own story and our own narrative. I don't want to feel like the arrogant person in the room, but I feel confident that, you know, what I believe in is Validore. At the same time, somebody could meet in the same room as I am who could have a completely opposite view. I think existing in that room alone takes courage, but I think confidence is something that you can feel and live and experience because you've kind of affirmed yourself that these are the things that you believe in. And it's been kind of tested, you know, maybe tried. Right. You might have attempted to change your mind. Right. And you might have, you know, thought about it in a different lens. But, yeah, if somebody, you know, came up to me and, you know, changed my mind and I actually did, like, I wouldn't be afraid of admitting that because I would be confident enough to be like, oh, like, I was wrong.

44:34 Has there ever been a moment where that happened?

44:43 Yeah, I can't think of a specific moment right now, but I think of moments, like when I speak on my own experience. I think when you begin. When I begin to share my experiences, I shouldn't share them as if everybody else is experiencing the same thing. I think I tend to do that, but I shouldn't because that's not somebody else's experience. That's mine. And if you don't mind me asking you, Romeo, like, you've just mentioned that you are fairly moderate and, you know, across the spectrum of issues. I was wondering, like, have your political, like, or ideological beliefs changed, either from your time spent in the military or right now as a student? Yeah, that's a great question. And, you know, when I was in the Marine Corps, there's a lot of people who, you know, were all about guns, all about war, and it's the culture that we live in. And, you know, I think politically I was. I just wanted to make sure that the people, you know, in Washington, DC were looking out for us. So it wasn't if they were a Democrat or Republican or libertarian. It was that they were ensuring that they were going to pull the troops out or bring the troops in for the quote unquote right reason. And so criticizing that those actions, those people were, you know, were important. So, like, when I was about to leave in November 2020, Covid happened, you know, early February into March, and I was fairly critical of the administration when. Yeah, like, they weren't so sure about how the military was going to operate in this Covid environment. And it was that type of indecisiveness that had, you know, gave me a little bit of a bitter taste in my mouth and, you know, sort of prompt me to stay, get out of. There was a mandate that everyone had to get vaccinated, and that was three years ago. But they kind of clawed back in this mandate, and you don't have to get vaccinated anymore. But in applying that mandate, people were getting kicked out for not being vaccinated. And now that it's not a mandate, what happened to all those people who honorably served at that point and got kicked out? Are they gonna go back in? Did they get a second shot? You know, and so, you know, as a student vet, like, as a student now, like, I feel open to be critical of the military, but I think I'm more concerned about, like, local policy. Like, for example, the traffic on McCormick, you know, the people who drive recklessly on Emmet. That's the kind of policy making that I'm concerned about. And especially what we experience as students. That's what I'm concerned about because that's in, you know, the proximity that I'm in.

48:27 So you live in Charles Silver?

48:29 Yep.

48:29 So what do you think about, like, the financial aid, the UVA? So I went to a meeting. Ydsa hear what it stands for. But, like, one guy said, like, you know, like, we're. I got some Pell grants from the government, but, like, still my mom says we cannot afford Uva. She wants me to get a VCU. And I'm like, I thought Uva was, like, the number two best school in financial aid. So, like, what do you think about that? Should colleges give financial aid to, like, people who are that poor to come here?

48:53 I think so. I think year. I mean, this is obviously easier, easy for me to say that we should give. That the school should give out more money. You know, I think there's an opportunity for outside perspectives to bring in more creative ideas. Like, for example, as a veteran, I can work as a work study and essentially get minimum wage and get up to a certain amount that's, you know, that the government is paying me, but, like, I don't get Pell Grant. I'm not eligible for financial aid. I rely solely on the military benefits that I earned through my service. I wish I got financial aid, but Uva looks at me and considers me somebody who earns enough to, I guess, make it through. So I think it would be unfair for me to criticize that it's, you know, affecting me. So I think at the end of the day, school should be more affordable because it's always been increasingly more expensive.

50:18 And knowing.

50:19 I have a question. You've talked a bit about your strong belief in helping people, especially after your unfortunate incidents. So I was wondering, did you mean helping people with your career or perhaps outside extracurricular activities? What did that look like for you personally?

50:40 So initially, I was like, maybe I'll be an engineer because renewable energy and stuff like that. And then I was like, I'm a little too lazy. I'll just. I'll major in what I want, which is physics. Right now, we're just like, you know, it doesn't help people. But, like, you know, like, volunteering stuff. Like, you know, I don't really do much for, like, benefit people right now. I go to, like, a middle school, you know, Lakeside. It's Impala drive, 20 minutes drive. I don't know if you know where that is. Like, you know, I, like, tutor them. I don't do much, but, you know, it's something I can do with my time. And, like, I. At least I feel like the kids are, are getting helped. I don't know much, but, like, you know, the teachers seem, like, appreciative. So I'm like, I would like to dedicate my time to, like, doing things like that, you know, more. And I think, like, the government is, like, it's such a big resource. Like, you know, it can do it in much more broader sense. Like, you know, yeah, I can do these little things, but, like, not too much, you know? And I think, like, it is within the government's grasp to, like, extend just a little bit, maybe not too much. Like you said, like, you know, don't. Don't, like, drain money from, like, the poor, like, the wealthy. No, don't. Don't do that. But, you know, take a little bit, you know, and give it to the poor. I think, like, that'll make a world difference.

51:52 Yeah, I'm. I'm a huge proponent of that, too. Like, fundraising, social entrepreneurship, even, like, philanthropy is something that I'm interested in, but all those things, like, require money. And I think the word money is, like, a nasty word that, you know, is intimidating. But, yeah, I hear you on that. I think dedicating your time for dedicating your time, which is a resource to other people and then benefiting from it, is, I think it makes life worthwhile because you're not thinking about yourself. You're thinking about others. So I'm just curious on the, you know, in your experience, you know, from having a stroke at such a young age, like, what are some, you know, short term aspirations that you have when it comes to being somebody who did experience something like that?

53:09 So, like, firstly, I want to be, like, I want to be a professor, which I know is, like, it's gonna be difficult at this point. It was difficult initially, but now. So, like, that's, like, for myself, but for others, like, you know, I don't want to say I've seen, like, the bads. I haven't. I'm from a wealthy family. I'll be honest. I haven't seen the bad side of the, like, I've seen just a little bit of that, and I'm like, it was so bad, you know? And, like, they experienced it on day to day basis, like, you know, and with no scope of, like, improving at all. So, like, you know, I shouldn't, like, like, before the stroke, too. Like, I kind of believed in helping people, but, like, now I'm, like, a little stronger. Would never have signed up for a program like this before, but now I think, like, it's good to, like, share your thoughts, thoughts with others and, like, help them to, like, realize this kind of stuff. Yeah. And I forgot the rest of your question. I'm sorry.

53:59 You answered. Okay, but we are coming close to the hour mark, so I wanted to make sure that you guys had time to address some of these last questions, closing thoughts, kind of reflecting on the conversation you're having and the things you're learning. So I'll give you guys a few minutes to do that before wrap up. Sure.

54:20 Okay. So, like, for the first question, I'm not gonna ask you. I'm gonna answer. So, like, I don't. I don't know, like, what part of your viewpoint, like, opposes mine? Cause like, it seems like, yeah, you do wanna benefit people and stuff. Like, don't take too much. Like, I get that, but, like you said, like, still, like, some should be given. I'm like, yeah, but so what's wrong with, like, the system of, like, specifically, like, in your opinion, what's wrong with system of giving. Taking money from, like, wealthier?

54:52 What is wrong with the system, taking money from wealthy people? Yeah, because it's a cyclic thing, I think, at least in the capitalistic society that we live in. If you. You know, if you. If the government. If. If the people who are affluent dislikes the government, you know, what does that do for the sentiment of that population? Does that encourage them to work more, work less, work, you know, just the same amount? I'm interested in that behavioral change. I mean, if you motivate others by giving them money, does that encourage them to work more, work just as much, or work less? So, I mean, that's a curiosity that I have. I just think it's a. It's not fully. I'm not confident in the idea of giving to giving for the sake of taking not fully. I think it's a great idea, but the logic is not fully. Hasn't encompassed in my head, so that might require some education, some modeling, and then maybe I can get to a good enough conclusion for me to say whether it is a good or a bad thing. I guess to ask you is, you know, well, since you didn't ask me, he'll just. He just answered. Yeah, I think it's. I think it's great that you're. You're kind of at that period where you want to help people, but in, you know, just kind of still wondering what that looks like. And, you know, it's not to say that you should figure that out. I think it's a learning process. But.

57:11 Yeah, for me, like, I don't have the ability to help too many people. I know that, like, I can volunteer little things like this, and, like, I can help some people, but, like, the government, in my opinion, has, like, the scope to help way more people. That's why I'm, like, interested in this kind of thing. Like, you know, I don't want to change someone's mindset. I know this is. I think this is the point of this conversation. Like. Like, I try to do that. I'm just trying to, like, yeah, put the word out there, like, you know, we can do more, and, like, you know, yeah, like, it'll be okay. Like, you know, you'll be okay. Like, I don't believe in, like. But I'm not gonna rob you. It was a knife. I'm sure, like, give a little bit of your salary, you know?

57:50 Yeah.

57:50 Help. Help these people, you know?

57:52 Yeah.

57:52 And, like, if you need help, it'll come back to you. That's the thing. The government is, like, the purpose of government is to help people, like, the people it governs.

58:00 Right.

58:01 So, like. And by doing so, like, if it requires a little more money, like, that's fine.

58:07 Like.

58:08 Like, obviously, like, it's not gonna take the money from the people and not give them anything. They're also gonna get benefits. Like, not just, like, I'll give you money buy, you know, it's gonna be a lot of things. And I forget your question. I'm sorry.

58:21 No, I think just to kind of reframe that what you had said about, like, you don't care who's representing you or you don't care, like, who. Who's changing it or what's being changed, as long as it's a good thing. That's kind of a challenge to you then, because you can be that person who can create that change. It doesn't have to be on a government level like you as a student can. I don't know too many. I don't know anybody else who's experienced what you've experienced. So you can probably shed some light and, you know, provide some sort of advice or awareness on a student level that doesn't have to be on a governmental level for you to be that change that you want to see. Not so much like a counter to your belief, but it's like a challenge, because I know it seems like you mean well. It's just kind of how you'd like to implement that.

59:23 Sorry. I have a closing question for you. I think you answered in the beginning, but I think I forget you were in the marines earlier. What made you interested in joining this program? I know you answered this question.

59:36 Yeah.

59:37 Like, you know, what are you trying to, like, spread? You know, what kind of thing are you trying.

59:41 Well, let me ask you, have you ever met somebody who served in the military?

59:47 I'm from Virginia beach. So, like, you know, lots of people have, like, not on, like, this level. I'll be honest. I've had, like, a conversation like this with someone who served, like. Yeah, just, like, something light, you know? That's it.

59:59 What's your initial reaction?

01:00:02 I'm surprised, actually. You're, like, a lot more chill.

01:00:05 Yeah. I mean, I can't say that with everybody, but, yeah, I also live in, like I told you, Hampton roads. Like, that's kind of why I wanted to show up is because, like, you know, did you know there is a veteran population at Uva?

01:00:23 Yeah. Like, you know, at Warner hall. Like, yeah, there's.

01:00:26 The ROTC is there? But there's also a population who prior. Served prior to Uva.

01:00:33 There's someone in my lab class who, like, shows up in a military outfit, you know? So I'm assuming she's still on duty. Yeah, if she can be in college and do this.

01:00:41 I don't know how that works, but, yeah, I think it's just kind of. We were, you know, I say we, but I was subject to what the government wanted the military to do at one point. Now I'm kind of, you know, a civilian now, and so, like, having that layer of experience, like I mentioned my mom had said, knowledge is power. So, like, being able to share with you what that looked like and how that's affected me is just one way of me giving back, in my opinion, because I don't want to be somebody who just keeps my experiences to myself because it wouldn't be worth anything.

01:01:23 And to close out briefly, like, what's.

01:01:27 The most important thing that you guys.

01:01:28 Have learned during this conversation? All right, so, like, I'm not good at accepting, like, opposing points of view. I mean, I'm closed minded, but, like, you know, and, like, you're not that opposite of mine. I'll be completely honest, too. Yeah. That's why I kind of accept yours. Well, you know, I see there's another, like, another mindset. You have to accept other consequences that happen. Like, you know, I live in an ideal world. Like, I'm from a generally wealthy family. Like, you know, I haven't experienced any of these, like, down. But you've been on the military. You've seen the other side, and, like, you've told me to, like, you know, be wary of, like, you know, other consequences of what could happen if, like, I push for this constantly, and I think, like, that is good, but I should be looking out for these things.

01:02:11 Yeah.

01:02:12 Will I change my mindset? Not 100% sure, but, like, you know, I will definitely look after these things. Like, yeah, there are other. There's another side. Like, you know, other people are affected by this.

01:02:20 Yeah.

01:02:21 Yeah.

01:02:22 I think what I would say about what I learned from you is the contrast of that is, like, you know, if you don't mind me, you know, kind of summarizing what you said. Like, it seems like if there's a will, there's a way, like, if somebody can do good, they should just do it, which I should believe in more, right? But that requires, like, trust. All these things that, you know, through experiences have to be, like, earned and gained and curated and maintained. So I think, you know, building trust and, you know, having the faith that people can just do good is something that I can practice and just be okay with and accept. All right, I.