I absolutely love science. Some friends would say I'm borderline obsessed. What can I say, "discovery, investigation, and the application of knowledge make the little wonders around us even more wonderful!" For this reason, I proactively look for opportunities to be involved in research and conservation work during my time off in the summer.
I love volunteering at St. Anthony's dining hall in the Tenderloin and animal rescue centers. I spend as much time as I can hiking, camping, or going for walks with my three-legged dog. My friends and family say I'm too slow because I love to stop and admire the flowers, trees, rocks, insects, birds ...I mean, what's the rush?!
I always say, "the teaching profession chose me." I started out as pre-med in college (worked at CPMC Hospital and volunteered at UCSF Rheumatology Clinic), but quickly realized I needed to be outdoors. I fell in-love with field research while visiting family in the Philippines, which led to some research opportunities (i.e. USGS, California Academy of Sciences, NASA Ames, USC Wrigley Marine Research). It was my experience working in afterschool programs, where I found my passion for education. Doors kept opening and I followed suit. I was offered multiple opportunities to manage grants and create programs, which eventually led to teaching fellowships (i.e. MSTI, Noyce Fellowship, STAR program). Through the bonds I formed with the participants (1st to 12th graders), I learned education was where I could help the most. All my experiences prior to becoming a teacher serendipitously came together in my classroom!
I am so happy to be part of the Redwood family!