A strength I have carried and treasured through the years is my ability to communicate and engage with those around me. Years ago when my parents attended parent-teacher conferences, a common theme among my teachers was that I did very well in all my subjects, but I was rather talkative. Well, that never really changed, but I learned to get my work done first and THEN chat with classmates.As I have traveled, attended universities, events, and explored the world around me, I continue to be fascinated by people. My belief is that you never know what the person next to you can teach you or introduce to you. The person next you to at the coffee shop reading the book you've been meaning to get can end up being a new lifelong friend or a new colleague! Some of the most genuine and influential people I have met all started with a curious question.Just about all of my work positions have been collaborative and team-oriented. Not only have I gained great friendships, but accomplished some very cool things. As human beings, we are meant to be in relation and community with one another and I intend to continue seeking careers with these qualities. Enough of the formal stuff, in my free time I enjoy indulging in the following:concerts (live music AND tons of people to chat with?! I'm there!), catching the sun and the sunset at the beach, longboarding on the boardwalk in Santa Monica, painting, calligraphy, reading, hiking, yoga, dancing, and enjoying quality time with family and friends.