I was born in Cleveland, Ohio, but I grew up in St. Augustine, Florida. I am the oldest of three boys born to Santiago and Wilma Rosado, who are from Puerto Rico. My brothers are Gabriel (20) and Ricardo (18). After going to a diocesan high school originally founded by The Sisters of St. Joseph, I attended the University of Notre Dame, where I received a Bachelor of Arts in Theology in May.

I first began discerning the priesthood in high school, but there were no male religious in our diocese, so I did not consider that. However, I always was attracted to community life. I liked the idea of a seminary, but not of being alone at a parish. At Notre Dame, I met the Congregation of Holy Cross who introduced me to the idea of religious life. I first became attracted to Dominican spirituality in the writings of Blessed Henry Suso. I wanted to learn more about the Dominicans, so I approached Fr. Andrew Hofer, O.P.. He was doing his doctoral studies at Notre Dame. After visiting other communities, I discerned that my heart belonged to the Dominicans because of their emphasis on community and communal prayer, their spiritual tradition and the place of study within that tradition, and their charism of preaching for the salvation of souls.

I have found within myself a great desire for souls, especially through teaching. I'd be happy doing this in whatever way the Province would like especially in education, parish ministry, campus ministry or mission work.