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A man's struggle to become a journalist

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O. Ricardo Pimentel, 54, has overcome many obstacles to pursue his journalism career.

Pimentel recalls that his inspiration for his writing career came from his dad, a Mexican immigrant who taught himself to read and write in English in his 20s. Pimentel s’ father subscribed to the San Bernardino Evening Telegram and took his three sons to San Bernardino City Library.

This paved the way for Pimentel’s interest in journalism.

“He was a good role model for me,” he said.

While attending Junior high school in San Bernardino, California, Pimentel got his first experience in writing when he joined the school newspaper, the Sturges Star. There he realized his passion for journalism and for writing generally.

Pimentel developed an early interest in politics and government. “Those two things make the world go round,” he said.

After completing San Bernardino High School, Pimentel enrolled at San Diego State University. Pimentel had difficulties affording college and dropped out. He enlisted in the Navy, serving from 1973 to 1977. He worked as a Navy journalist, serving in Guam, Hawaii and Antarctica, writing for base newspapers and working in public affairs offices.

After he finished his military service, the GI Bill paid for Pimentel’s return to college. Being the youngest out of three he realized he had a mission to complete. His mission was graduating from college as his two older brothers had done. He felt that he had matured by then.

Pimentel graduated from California State University, Fresno in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. He didn’t minor in any other topic because his whole passion was journalism.

After college, Pimentel spent much of his journalism career in California and Arizona, working as a reporter, editor and columnist. Pimentel is the author of two novels, “House With Two Doors,” published in 1997, and “Voices From The River,” published in 2001.

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