I was raised in southeastern Idaho where I enjoyed hiking, exploring, looking at cool rocks, fishing, camping, and most outdoor activities. I chose a non-traditional route to complete a high school education, then enlisted in the US Army Infantry when I turned 17. I served on active duty for nine years then transitioned to local law enforcement in Washington state. I worked as a commissioned police officer for the Federal Way Police Department, where I also served on the regional SWAT team, was a field training officer, active shooter response instructor, and ballistic protection instructor. After 13 years of law enforcement service, plus military service, I was ready to slow my pace and spend more time with family. Upon retiring, I enrolled in a general bachelors program at WSU Tri-Cities. I certified into the Earth snd Environmental Science program when allowed and majored in Environmental and Ecosystem Science. While earning a degree, I worked in the WSU Tri-Cities Veterans Center where I assisted veterans with education benefits and connected them with various resources aimed at helping them receive every possible benefit they earned. During my senior year, I was accepted into graduate school at WSU Tri-Cities where I currently serve as a research assistant. My research assistantship allows me to use various instruments and methods to conduct water quality analyses in the Liberty Lake watershed, which is located near Spokane, WA. I am also conducting research in the Yakima and Columbia Rivers near the Tri-Cities, WA. I consider myself very fortunate to be a part of the Roley Watershed Biogeochemistry Research Laboratory, and try my best to keep up with the expert knowledge of our advisor, Dr Sarah Roley, who is a superior leader and mentor. I am confident that I will be ready to face any challenge following the completion of my program because of the excellent tutelage I am receiving. Following grad school, I would like to complete a post-doctoral research project, though the subject is yet to be determined. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, weightlifting, rock hunting (mostly Columbia Basin Agates and petrified wood), and off-roading.