My undergraduate background is a Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Alabama with a concentration of public communications and a double minor in psychology and Spanish. I began my professional career in the banking industry, working as a teller and later a credit clerk. However, I soon realized my calling and skillset in education.I began my career in education in 2020 after earning a certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) and then moving to Madrid, Spain, to work as a language assistant in high-school English classes. My stay in Spain ended up lasting three years, which included earning a Master's in Teaching at the historic University of Alcalá through the Instituto-Franklin Teach & Learn program.In 2023, I moved back to the United States to begin a position as a project advisor for the TRIO Educational Talent Search program at James Madison University. As stated in the Department of Education's website, "The Talent Search program identifies and assists individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential to succeed in higher education. The program provides academic, career, and financial counseling to its participants and encourages them to graduate from high school and continue on to and complete their postsecondary education." As a direct beneficiary of this great program from when I was a high school student in Alabama, it was an honor to accept the position at James Madison University and to have a direct role in building this relatively new program for the area, all from the ground up. Thanks to our team efforts and unique skillsets, we grew the cohort from less than 50 to its maximum capacity of 500 in less than one year! TRIO works!My philosophy on education is that students learn through a variety of activities that maintain their interest and accommodate for all learning styles. In addition, relating with the students and displaying compassion and empathy for their general wellbeing are essential; these help create a meaningful connection between student and teacher as well as foster a positive atmosphere for learning and success.In my free time, I enjoy staying active through exercise and various sports. I love nature and outdoor adventures. I also spend time playing the guitar and singing, occasionally performing in public contexts. During extended periods of free time, I take the opportunity to visit new places as a world traveler.