I am incredibly passionate about understanding our natural world. In my personal life I continue to explore new environments and I try to meet as many new species of Earth's diverse forms of life as I can. My first graduate degree in Conservation Biology led me to Alaska, where I conducted research to learn more about the connections between the human history of the Kachemak Bay region and impacts on the natural environment. I've also worked for a national fisheries organization, Trout Unlimited, where I worked to restore native Eastern Brook Trout habitat in the Northeastern United States. These more formal educational experiences along with many years in the mountains skiing, climbing, hiking, and fishing have added to my passion for the natural world. I see experience as a bad experience and I do my best to bring my experiences and interdisciplinary knowledge to every student I work with.