I received a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and French from Southeast Missouri State University. While in college I travelled to Montreal, Quebec for an entire summer to work and learn French.

I taught Spanish and French for two years at a small rural high school in Missouri. During those years I was asked to teach a Spanish summer program to underserved students which I really found both challenging, and rewarding.

After my second year of teaching I left for Montpellier, France on a scholarship to study international business for a year as part of an exchange program. Following that year of study I was able to remain in France for an additional four years.

In my spare time I volunteer helping serve meals to the community's unhoused at a local church, I like staying abreast of world events, practice martial arts, yoga, and ride my bike just to name a few.