Hailing originally from Saint Charles, Illinois, I received my undergraduate degree in English Writing from the lovely Illinois Wesleyan University. I've always had a passion for writing, especially creative writing (I can attest to having written my first story on paper before even knowing what letters were), so I've always wanted to bring my creative writing background and focus to classrooms to teach students, both English majors and otherwise, that the written word has tremendous power and beauty. My teaching experience before coming to Iowa State University, aside from leading various teams through projects (such as films, video editing projects, and creating an undergraduate literary journal), was centered around tutoring high school students (usually juniors) for the ACT's Reading, English, and Writing section. While a seemingly simplistic subject matter (made all the moreso via a wretchedly-worn binder containing all of the lessons and ideas), I found confidence in learning about how to talk to students and really teach them something valuable, not just use them as receptacles for knowledge, a walking brain and pair of eyes to parrot back what is orthodox. During my time tutoring, I grew more confident in molding the subject matter and lessons to the students, responding organically to their desires and learning styles. As such, I brought all of those experiences, skills, and hopes to Iowa State University and its ISUComm 150 and 250 courses.