Undergraduate Degree: University of Southern Mississippi - Bachelor in Arts, Psychology

My first and oldest passion is reading, as I often found myself engrossed in stories since I first picked up a book. I was hyperlexic as a child, meaning I began reading books that would normally be far beyond what would normally be expected from other children my age. This passion for reading often got me into some trouble in school, as I would read during class time and have to have my books confiscated. Video games came a little later. I loved stories, so video games with complex fantasy worlds and long narratives were always the most appealing to me. In particular, I enjoyed the interactivity they provided while also offering avenues of non-linear or environmental storytelling. I first began writing creatively in middle school and quickly found that I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It was an outlet for what had often been described as my "overactive imagination" and, as with video games, something with which I felt I could properly interact. These interests all came together when I discovered Dungeons & Dragons, which I thoroughly believe is something everyone could benefit from playing, especially those children who might suffer from difficulties socializing. Through immersive role-playing experiences, I've witnessed firsthand the power of collaborative storytelling to foster creativity, teamwork, and empathy. Dungeons & Dragons transcends mere entertainment—it's a platform for shared adventures, collective problem-solving, and boundless imagination, making it an invaluable tool for fostering social skills and cognitive development in players of all ages. This experience reinforced my belief in the importance of experiential learning and hands-on engagement in fostering personal growth and development. In essence, my interests in reading, video games, creative writing, and Dungeons & Dragons reflect my deep-seated love for storytelling and exploration, as well as my growing understanding of the human psyche. These passions have not only enriched my life but also shaped my identity as a creative individual eager to share the joy of storytelling with others and explore the mysteries of the human mind through the lens of psychology.