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Vernon Hills Marine returns to DJ roots
After serving four years in the U.S. Marine Corps, Vernon Hills resident Armando Bolivar picks up where he left off as a DJ for Lake County-based Memory Makers. | Submitted photo.
Updated: April 15, 2013 2:11AM
With a passion for his country, and for music, at age 25 Armando Bolivar has devoted himself to both.
After serving four years as a U.S. Marine in the Middle East, the Vernon Hills resident is back home working as a disc jockey and starting on yet another professional journey.
When he graduated from Mundelein High School, Bolivar said he was not sure which road to follow. Today, Bolivar said, he’s certain he made the right decision.
Q: Had you always wanted to be a Marine?
A: I guess I have. At the time (after high school) I was uncertain if I wanted to go to school or go to the military. I kind of said, “If I’m going to do it, I might as well do it now.”
Q: How did four years serving with the Marines affect your life?
A: I was based at San Diego in the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. It goes out and patrols a certain area of the world. We based our fleet out of the Middle East. It taught me how to use my time in an efficient manner. It just makes my life so much more efficient. I find time management really easy now.
Q: Tell us about your newest job.
A: I was a DJ before I joined the Marine Corp. I’m passionate about music. I always have been. I work for Memory Makers, we do weddings (mostly in Lake County). I have three days a week to DJ (and) it gives me more than enough time to study.
Q: Being a Marine and a DJ are very different professions. Why are you suited for both?
A: Being in the military is a very serious profession, but it’s very social as well. You have awesome relationships with people from different backgrounds. That’s what being a DJ is too.
Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: I’m currently using my GI benefits to go to school. I’m going to school full-time in the Loop (at DePaul University). Right now I’m commuting, taking the train. I’m interested in international business. I’m thinking commercial real estate development, converting old buildings into hotels or condo units.
