I am a graduate of Eastern Oregon University, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Integrative Science (with a double major in anthropology and ecology). I am also a graduate of Logan University with a Master of Science degree in nutritional science. I am completing my Doctor of Education degree at Logan University (with a focus in health professions education), and am completing my Doctor of Philosophy degree at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine (with a focus in comparative biomedical sciences). Much of my graduate research and training focuses on developing medical education curricula that is more student-based and centered, as well as animal behavior/welfare research that begins with individual animals and carries over towards more healthy and sustainable ecosystems and populations. Even though I am trained at the graduate level in several biological 'subdisciplines,' such as cellular biology, nutritional biochemistry, etc., I particularly enjoy tutoring introductory biology, chemistry, and environmental science courses. I have always had broad scientific interests, spanning several scientific disciplines, which was a primary driving agent in my pursuit of an integrative bachelor's degree in that it allowed me to take a variety of these underpinning science courses. I strongly believe these courses can be exciting, and that they hold the potential for opening many avenues of student self-discovery. I feel that helping students flourish in these introductory courses not only builds self-confidence (along with better grades), but also builds self-insight and self-awareness that can help broaden and direct future trajectories and choices down the road. Outside of academic-related activities, I especially enjoy the outdoors and endurance sports. I have traveled extensively both inside and outside of the U.S. often traveling to some really remote destinations. I particularly enjoy running especially trail running, because I get to enjoy the natural world while getting some exercise.

Academically speaking, and just for fun too, I am broadly interested in biology, chemistry, geology, and physics. I also enjoy reading and contemplating philosophy and philosophical issues (it teaches me how to think!)