I grew up in Tecumseh, MI, where I was fortunate enough to go through the Tecumseh Public School system with some excellent teachers.  They taught me that effective teaching is not only about how you deliver content, but how you relate to your students.  Your relationship with your students is crucial to creating a learning environment that fosters not only academic achievement and development, but also social and interpersonal.

I also attended Adrian College for my undergraduate degree. The small-town atmosphere and small class sizes were very beneficial to me as a learner.  The small class sizes meant I was able to better get to know my professors and felt more comfortable asking for help.  I want my students to feel comfortable asking me for help.  It is a goal of mine to create a classroom community that feels almost like a small town and creates that trust that leads to a more productive classroom.
While living and working at Hawk Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary in Kempton, Pennsylvania, I was able to practice teaching hands-on education.  I love providing opportunities for students to DO learning.  When a child can experience a concept in a fun way that helps to make a personal connection between the child and the concept.  Creating an environment for profound, personal learning is a goal of mine.
As a member of the Kappa Delta Pi Education Honors Society I was able to take an invaluable trip to Arizona.  While there I got to tour/observe/teach in a school next to the Pima Reservation in Coolidge.  I was able to interact with a diverse group of students and learn about how teachers at this school handle the challenges that come with such a diverse student population.  I was also fortunate enough to hike the Grand Canyon and have other wonderful adventures with a great group of pre-service teachers.  I was able to teach and be taught.
In my free time I like to spend time with my family and friends and my cat, Eddie.  I also enjoy travelling and continuing my own learning through adventures to new places and new experiences!  Museums and historical sites are some of my favorite places to visit on vacation.  I am always ready to learn and for a new adventure!
Jamestown, VA
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Lincoln Memorial, Washington, DC
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Casa Grande Ruins National Monument, Coolidge, AZ