My objective is to accelerate students' learning by building on the skills, knowledge, and resources they already possess, and challenging them to think critically. Given my background as a student, educator, and professional, I have the skills, know-how, and experience needed to accomplish this objective.

After graduating from high school in 2003 as Valedictorian of my class, I received two Bachelor's degrees from the University of Colorado, one in English Literature (I graduated summa cum laude) and another in Humanities (I graduated With Honors). From there, I moved on to the State University of New York-Buffalo, where I recently received my Master's degree in English Literature.

Throughout these years as a student, I also worked as a professional writer and editor. Additionally, I taught undergraduate writing and research classes while in Buffalo.

All of this has given me a wide and diverse skill set that I bring to bear on work with students.

Beyond my educational and professional background, I love all things having to do with bicycles. In 2011, I biked across the United States, from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast. I loved the experience so much that the following year I biked the Pacific coast from Canada to Mexico.

I also love reading as much as I possibly can, listening to podcasts, cooking, and my two cats!