I am currently an online master's journalism student at St. Bonaventure University. I will finish my coursework in October and officially receive my degree this December. I have been an editorial intern with Triangle Media Partners since my first fall semester. -->Prior to entering graduate school in May 2023, I worked in clinical research and medical communications for 12 years. I started as a research coordinator at RTI International in the global health division. After a couple of years I left RTI and transitioned to a recruiter role, gaining full-cycle recruitment experience at several third-party agencies and clinical research organizations. At the beginning of the pandemic, I shifted from talent acquisition to project management. At The Curry Rockefeller Group, I managed an account of over $1.5 million, collaborating with a group of medical writers to make a difference in the lives of people with epilepsy. In April 2022, I had an opportunity to train after earning a spot on Team USA for paraclimbing (rock climbing for people with disabilities). I spent a year building my climbing skills while working in the recreation center at Duke University. Concurrently, I was in a mentorship program with SCARPA where I received the guidance I needed to start a North Carolina chapter of ParaCliffHangers, a nonprofit focused on providing community for rock climbers with disabilities.It was a privilege to have some time away from the jobs I typically pursued and I am very thankful for that. During that time, I realized that I have always liked to read and write, though those were things I had not done for pure enjoyment in a long time. I like talking to people and hearing their stories. After considering how to incorporate these interests into my life, I knew journalism would be a great fit. I only wish I had found the field sooner, but the next best time to get started is now.In my spare time, I enjoy volunteering, staying active, spending time with family and friends, watching women’s basketball and advocating for mental health.