The most important lesson my parents imparted in me was to never stop looking for opportunities to learn. I hold a Masters in Visual Arts from Auckland University of Technology, a Masters of Sciences in Chinese Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, and a Bachelor of the Arts with a double major focus in Chinese Studies and Human Development from the Evergreen State University. Although I am a staunch believer in lifelong learning, I always aim to impart in my students the importance of learning as a vehicle for enriching both themselves and those around them: rather than secluding in the proverbial ivory tower, students should be empowered to be the rising tide that lifts all boats with them. I specialize in teaching English literature, ESL, world and US history, drawing and painting, art history, standardized test prep, and effective crafting of personal statements for college applications.

In my free time, you can find me in my studio painting large abstractions with calligraphy ink and brushes or using dip pens to ink painstaking illustrations. I also play saxophone and have practiced martial arts my whole life, particularly focusing on tai chi over the last twenty years.