Biography

I grew up in Santa Clara County and left the Bay Area only long enough to earn a B.A. in English from Azusa Pacific University, where I served as vice president of the English Honor Society. Attending a smaller university was an amazing experience for me: all my professors knew me by name and served as inspiring mentors. Thanks to their guidance, I went on to work as both a writer and an educator.

Throughout my twelve years’ experience tutoring in English, I have always strived to pass on my appreciation for literature to my students. My love of books has led me to tour over a dozen homes of authors of classic literature, where I’ve stood in their writing rooms, looked through the same windows they gazed out of for inspiration, and learned about their lives to better grasp their work. I’ve also hosted teen book clubs, put on literary trivia competitions, and organized speaking events for writers. My ultimate goal is to see students enjoy reading and writing in all different forms so that their own skills can grow.

My work with students also includes several years of volunteering with foster youth, as well as speaking at schools, library conferences, and literary festivals. I received the Distinguished Alumna Award from my alma mater for my dedication to students and my accomplishments in the field of literature. While I enjoy speaking to large groups, I find that 1-on-1 tutoring is where I can focus most on helping a student reach his or her goals, whether those goals include excelling in a class or writing an effective college admissions essay. I aim to clarify challenging works of literature for students, and I enjoy sharing my enthusiasm in hopes of inspiring a deeper interest in reading and writing.

When I’m not tutoring, I’m usually watching science fiction movies, wandering local trails, or reading fiction and non-fiction alike.