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My name is Joaquin Verdusco.  I was born in the state of Michoacan Mexico.  I came to the United States when I was eight years old.  I am the second to the oldest of a family of 14.  I graduated from John Marshall High in June 1991.  I then attended Los Angeles City College and graduated with an A.A degree in child development in June 1997.  I have been at the California State University Los Angeles for the past four years.  I recently received a B.A in Child Development.  I plan to receive a teaching credential and then hopefully continue working on my Master's once I begin to teach.

Since I was six years old, I began to sing with my younger brother Doroteo.  I began playing the violin when I was 15 years of age.  My father has been in the Mariachi business since he was 20 years old, that is how I was introduced to this wonderful music which has helped me find my cultural roots in this Americanized society.  I am currently employed in a mariachi group where I work Saturdays and Sundays.  I play the violin in the group and I am also the group director.  I am responsible for dealing with customers and making contracts for the group.  Sometimes it can be stressful but I really enjoy doing what I do.  We get to travel a lot and meet lots of celebrities and at the same time, helps pay for my education.

  
      John Marshall High 1991                            Graduation June 15, 2002                 McDonald's Mariachi Competition
 

          
           Family Picture ours before coming to the U.S                     Doroteo and Joaquin "singing Contest Trophies"