GABRIEL MALDONADO-ZAMBRANA

About me

Since my first interaction with a computer in 1993 at the now-closed Tomás Carrión Maduro School in Ponce, PR, my journey has been intimately linked to technology. This early exposure, complemented by two years of computer classes at Manuel González Pato School and the advent of the first family computer, ignited a spark of curiosity and a passion for self-directed learning. Since then, I have delved into the realms of HTML and CSS, as well as various operating systems and content creation and design software.

My decision to pursue a degree in Computer Science at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico, Ponce Campus, was solidified during my years at Ponce High School. After completing my undergraduate degree, thanks to God, and spending several years working in the private sector with advanced technology, my passion for reading and education led me to earn a master's degree in Library Services with Information Technology at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico in Ponce. This decision was greatly influenced by the admirable work of my beloved wife as a teacher in the public system, seeing firsthand the positive impact of integrating technology into education.

Today, I serve as a technology teacher at a middle school in Connecticut, USA, where I have the privilege of teaching students from 6th to 8th grade the fundamentals of Computer Science. My curriculum is divided into three main areas: computer literacy, design and animations, and web page creation. However, my true goal extends beyond technical teaching; I strive to plant the seed of curiosity in my students about the vast world of technology and computer science. I aim to offer them the opportunity to see that technology and computers are much more than entertainment on gaming consoles, phones, or personal computers. My mission is to show them that they can become creators, highlighting the possibilities for growth and unique development in this exciting field.