I have been passionate about science and especially biology since I was 12 and that led to both a bachelors and Ph.D. It is my favorite subject to tutor because I love sharing understanding and knowledge about the subject and explaining the fascinating way in which biological systems operate. In college I discovered field biology was for me and I spent time working on a research boat and a year in Costa Rica when I did my graduate degree. I have worked with students throughout my career. In college I TAed and taught a course on the research boat. In grad school I taught classes and TAed. I also individually mentored some undergrads. Currently I volunteer half time at a middle school working with students in math and science as a classroom aide. I also developed a peer tutoring program at the school. I love working with people to help them understand concepts and ideas, especially young people. I believe the most important things in being a successful tutor are formation of a personal relationship, patience, and the ability to adapt to the learner's way and pace of acquiring information.

I love to be outdoors which is a bit limited in my neck of the woods so I travel to do it. I am also a ceramic artist and do primarily sculpture. The two interests meld because I collect clay from the outdoors and use it in my art.