I have completed all but my dissertation at SUNY Stony Brook for a PhD in Marine Sciences, and received a BA in Chemistry and Mathematics from Alfred University. As an undergraduate and graduate student I was privileged enough to be offered numerous teaching and tutoring opportunities in the chemistry, environmental, and marine sciences departments at Alfred and Stony Brook. These classes presented me with many new pedagogical challenges that broadened my horizons. One of the most memorable and rewarding positions I have had was with an environmental outreach program for students to explore and learn about coastal salt marshes. Instruction during this camp occurred both in the classroom and out in the field, virtually and in person. This interest in hands-on and one-on-one teaching has led me to continue to seek opportunities to help students connect fundamental concepts with applications in life and the environment. I believe that the foundation for a good education is built with a solid basic knowledge in math and science, with which students can then expand into many cross-disciplinary pursuits. From my observations nothing is more pivotal to student development than a willingness for creative exploration, which is what I hope to foster in all my students.