A living testimony that you have to keep EATN® no matter your circumstances, Vega had a 1.9 GPA entering his sophomore year of high school & was removed from Miami Carol City High's varsity basketball team. He later transferred to North Miami Beach Senior High and improved in academics, allowing him playing time.  With a 2.3 GPA and a 14 on his ACT's, college seemed out of reach. Determined to push forward, Vega attended a prep school in Jackson, Mississippi after graduation, where he polished his scores for college entry. 

Vega's talent and dedication placed him on the receiving end for a full athletic scholarship to Snow College in Ephraim, Utah, where he earned his AA Degree in General Education with a 3.0 GPA. Snow College inspired a new life and a new outlook; after completion of his AA degree, Vega was presented with a Division 1 offer from Winthrop University. The future seemed promising with a successful junior college career and Division 1 status under his belt, but Vega's dream, however, became a nightmare. Faced with adversity upon his arrival at Winthrop, he tore his ACL during the first week of school and had to red-shirt for the remainder of the year. After returning from his injury, playing time was scarce and frustrations with basketball soon began to reflect in his academics.

After much deliberation, Vega transferred schools to complete his undergraduate studies. It was this decision that led him to Fairmont State University: the institution that awarded him his degree and gave him the opportunity to complete his college basketball career. While Vega was hopeful about Fairmont, he did not play as much as expected. Nonetheless, Vega never ceased to contribute to the team, becoming a leader, as well as a mentor to some of the younger players.  After improving his grades, Vega's resilience and resolve won him selection for the Phi Alpha Theta Honor's society with a 3.2 GPA upon graduation.

Vega serves as a positive resource to those around him. During his time in South Carolina, he worked with The Kiwanis Club's Terrific Kids Program promoting character development, high self-esteem, and positive peer relationships. The program also provided children with food and school supplies. Vega also served as a student leader on a mission trip to Haiti, where his group provided necessities, spent time at an orphanage, and participated in leading a basketball clinic within the community. Being an athlete taught valuable lessons, and basketball gifted Vega with opportunities to explore the world—gaining a more fulfilling outlook on life. Adversity is not something he is unfamiliar with, as he embraces the element of change and its challenges. Vega remains active in his community by spreading his message to "Exist Above The Noise" of negativity.  Residing in Miami, FL, his spare time involves public speaking, participating in basketball tournaments, and coaching and mentoring children in both scholastic and athletic capacities.

"To everyone that assisted in shaping me into who I am today: I am eternally grateful to you all.

To everyone else that contributes to this organization: thank you for seeing my vision."

-Brandon Vega-