I attended college in California. When I started I definitely thought I would be an engineer. After 3 years, I decided that I was not really interested in pure engineering - it was too dry, boring, and impersonal for me. I finished with an entirely different degree - a Bachelors in Psychology. After I graduated, I found the ideal job - helping engineers design things that people can use safely and easily. The job is called Human Factors Engineering. Later I went back to school and finished my engineering with a Masters in Industrial and Systems Engineering.

While I think working as a pure engineer would be boring - I do appreciate the logic and precision of science and mathematics. These are tools that allow us to predict and control the future! Phones, computers, cars, bridges, buildings, and the space station were all created with science and mathematics. Not only are these powerful tools, but learning math and science can help you become better thinkers. The logical process used to solve science and math problems can be used to solve all sorts of problems - from how to build a fence to how to make an important decision!

I like to teach by using examples - it can help the student get another perspective on the concept, one that they are more familiar with. I also like to use drawings and graphic aids. And as a lesson concludes, I want to be certain they fully understand the topic. To make certain students understand a concept, I ask them to explain it to back to me - not using my words, but their own.

For my own enjoyment, I like travel and exploration. A few years ago I had a chance to live in Europe for over 6 months. I also like construction - I once built my house, including plumbing and electrical work. And, although my license is not active now, I enjoy flying. I flew my own small Cessna from the west coast to nearly the east coast.