Biography

Ever since I can remember, I’ve loved language and ideas. Because we all use language to talk about ideas and to connect with others, the two passions have deepened and complemented each other over the years. One of my favorite things about teaching is watching students become more confident users of language in expressing their own ideas, engaging with and shaping their world as they do so.

Growing up in a military family as the daughter and granddaughter of educators, I felt comfortable in school and understood early on what was needed to be successful in a structured academic environment. Many caring and dedicated teachers inspired me to go beyond the textbooks and curricula, constantly encouraging and challenging me to reach my full academic potential. As a result of their efforts and my own hard work, I was awarded a full scholarship to a top 5 public university where I pursued my interests in language, cultural anthropology, philosophy, and the arts.

Living and teaching abroad for several years gave me invaluable perspective on the process of learning language, on cultural diversity, and on how to use what seem like barriers to make real progress in understanding another language, a new concept, or a person who’s different from anyone you’ve ever met before. Because of those experiences and my own wonderful teachers, I am committed to understanding how each individual learns best, using creativity and all available resources to deliver optimal lessons that meet their needs. I also strive to increase student self-awareness, empowering them to take charge of their own learning. Together we work to develop solid techniques so that students can find their own answers and solutions. Students can later apply these techniques in any field of endeavor. Nothing gives me more pleasure than seeing people succeed, and I make every effort and use any strategy to help my students achieve their goals.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy nature, the arts, cooking, tennis, and reading. I have particular interests in 19th century literature, art history, music, archaeology, and (auto)biographies, but I’ll read just about anything that tells an interesting story in an interesting way.