I was born in Springfield, MA, but grew up in Maryland. I turned interests in art, language, and science into the corresponding majors I completed at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. For five years after graduation I pursued meaningful work that related to environmental awareness, an issue that remains dear to me. Leading up to the MAT program, I had realized that to have impact and leverage change, education would be the most effective way to influence people.

Teaching during my first rounds observation 12.7.16

I had worked and lived with amazing teachers through the National Audubon Society and Nature’s Classroom. Connecting people to the outdoors was an incredible experience and provided a tangible opportunity to enmesh students to science through a variety of modes. The experience in teaching in Connecticut taught me classroom management, how to use inquiry based lessons, and to lead large group activities.

Leading groups on a 4-hour hike in Ivoryton, Connecticut

Part of what led me to teaching was the urge to continue building on the breadth and depth of my knowledge of environmental issues. I felt that the work I was involved in was channeling other’s information, and not augmenting my own. In being observed and encouraged by visiting classroom teachers to pursue professional teaching, I decided to apply to Clark and other universities for their Master’s Programs in Teaching.

Next Up: Setting & Context