Michael Casso was born on S. New York Avenue in Laredo, Texas. Like most Laredoans, Michael grew up speaking Spanish at home. He was the Güero of his neighborhood and learned English watching American television and translating his grandmother’s mail. Michael’s grandfather encouraged him from a young age to pursue an education and reminded him that an education, unlike money, was the only thing he could never lose. After graduating high school, Michael attended Texas A&M International University where he pursued a degree in English and Philosophy. There, he developed a deep interest in Chicano literature and Mexican-American history. As an undergraduate, Michael attended Open Mic at Laredo’s BorderSlam. After preparing and sharing his own pieces, Michael found a community that helped him use his words and transform them into art. Michael went on to pursue a law degree from Texas A&M University School of Law in Fort Worth, Texas and works as an attorney in Dallas, Texas.