Currently I’m a Peace Corps Volunteer in Kazakhstan meaning that’s my life 24/7 for 2 years. I’m over half-way through though and need to start preparing myself to re-enter the world that is America. Also this means I need to figure out who the hell I am again. Being in Peace Corps forces you to hide certain aspects of yourself for various reasons (safety included). It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and an amazing experience so I think it’s totally worth hiding parts of myself for 2 years.

Prior to Peace Corps, I was born and raised in Alabama which was terrifying at times. I got my B.A. in History and International Studies with a concentration in Africa. I’m slightly obsessed with all things to do with Africa. I’ve played basketball since I was 5, and my dream was to play professionally until I discovered my real passion was to work in conflict zones with children. After college, I was a private tutor and substitute teacher for a bit. Then I worked for AmeriCorps as a first grade reading teacher for 6 months before heading to the Peace Corps. After PC, I’m moving to Vermont to attend grad school and get a Master’s in Conflict Resolution. Vermont will be such a change from Alabama and especially Kazakhstan. I’m looking forward to it.

I’m pretty easy going and down to earth. I like to travel and crave adventure. I love learning about difficult cultures. I like to read. I am also obsessed with being active and exercise. And pre-Peace Corps I was a vegan. Not really possible in this country, but I plan to return to my vegan lifestyle upon returning to the States.