Values
Authenticity and Connection
- Genuine Communication: I believe in the power of authenticity and strive to maintain a conversational and human approach in all my interactions. Whether I am writing, teaching, or engaging with others, I value honesty and transparency.
- Building Relationships: Forming meaningful connections is at the heart of what I do. From collaborating with colleagues and engaging with students to connecting with readers through my writing, I prioritize creating relationships that are built on trust and mutual respect.
Growth and Learning
- Continuous Improvement: I am committed to lifelong learning and personal growth. My diverse experiences in teaching, writing, and various other fields have honed my ability to adapt and evolve. I am always seeking new opportunities to expand my skills and knowledge.
- Mentorship and Teaching: Sharing knowledge and guiding others is a source of great fulfillment for me. My teaching career has allowed me to mentor students and peers, helping them discover their passions and develop their skills.
Creativity and Innovation
- Embracing Creativity: Creativity is a driving force in my life. Whether I am writing an article, developing a curriculum, or exploring new hobbies, I approach each task with an innovative mindset and a passion for creating something unique.
- Supporting Startups: I thrive in dynamic environments where innovation is encouraged. Working with startups has given me the opportunity to contribute to exciting projects and witness the impact of creative solutions firsthand.
Integrity and Excellence
- Commitment to Quality: Excellence is a standard I uphold in all my endeavors. From crafting compelling content to delivering engaging lessons, I am dedicated to producing high-quality work that I can be proud of.
- Ethical Practices: Integrity is the cornerstone of my professional and personal life. I am committed to ethical practices and always strive to do what is right, ensuring that my actions align with my values.
Efficiency
- Effective Solutions: I value efficiency and always seek to maximize productivity while maintaining high standards. I believe in working smarter, not harder, and constantly look for ways to streamline processes and optimize performance.
- Time Management: Effective time management is crucial to my workflow. I prioritize tasks and manage my schedule meticulously to ensure that I meet deadlines without compromising on quality.
Interests
Creative Pursuits
- Writing and Storytelling: Writing has been a lifelong passion. From crafting articles to storytelling, fiction, and poetry, I enjoy creating engaging content that resonates with readers. This interest underpins my strong communication skills and ability to connect with diverse audiences.
- Innovative Projects: I have led and participated in a variety of innovative projects. For instance, I developed the curriculum for the “Writing for Digital Media” course, a brand new class created from scratch, and spearheaded a project where students built, edited, and published their own online fiction anthologies. These experiences highlight my ability to think creatively and implement unique solutions in educational and professional settings.
Professional Development
- Industry Engagement: I am actively involved in professional development through attending workshops, conferences, and webinars. This engagement helps me stay current with industry trends and continuously improve my skills.
- Networking: I value building a strong professional network. Participating in industry events and online communities allows me to connect with peers, share knowledge, and collaborate on projects.
Environmental Stewardship
- Nature and Conservation Advocate: I have a profound love for the outdoors and often spend my weekends exploring new trails or camping under the stars. Believing firmly in the saying, “take only pictures, leave only footprints,” I make it a point to leave natural areas better than I found them by removing any trash left behind by other travelers. Additionally, I actively support local initiatives to preserve Illinois’ natural prairie environments, signing petitions and spreading awareness for efforts to protect these vital ecosystems. These activities demonstrate my commitment to environmental stewardship, inspire my creativity, enhance my problem-solving skills, and reinforce my ethical stance on preserving nature for future generations.
Diversity and Inclusion
- Advocate for Inclusion:My commitment to diversity and inclusion is both personal and professional. While earning my Master’s in Education, I focused on addressing systemic inequities and creating tailored curricula for diverse learners, including those with disabilities who require specialized support. As an educator, I supported students with mental health challenges and advocated for LGBTQ+ students, ensuring they felt safe and valued. These experiences have enriched my ability to connect with people from various backgrounds and foster inclusive environments where all voices are heard and respected. My dedication to equity and diversity is essential for creating a culture of respect and innovation in any organization.
Conclusion
My values and interests are deeply intertwined, shaping both my personal and professional identity. Authenticity, creativity, and a commitment to excellence guide my actions and decisions. I am passionate about continuous learning, forming meaningful connections, and exploring new ideas and cultures. These principles and pursuits drive me to excel, bringing a unique perspective and dedicated approach to every project I undertake. Whether it’s through writing, teaching, or exploring nature, I strive to contribute meaningfully and make a positive impact.