When did you start at UMD? Why did you choose to work at UMD?
I started working as an adjunct faculty in the Department of Social Work in the fall of 2016 teaching a class on the side while I was working full time in the field. I moved to teaching full time in fall 2021.
What do you like most about your job?
Facilitating engaging classroom discussion and exploration with students. I love the energy that comes with in-class exercises and diving deeper into various topics. When students have "aha" moments—that is where I find the most joy in my work.
What's your favorite class or topic to teach and why?
This one's a tough one! I have a few. I enjoy teaching Race, Class and Gender as there is so much for us all to learn with this work. I also enjoy teaching Senior Capstone for the BSW students, as this class focuses on professional identity and prepares students to enter into the field.
Do you have any advice for students?
"Do something that you love, and don't get really good at something you don't like." This came from my best friend years ago when I was experiencing some burnout. It was a lightbulb moment that changed my professional career.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Play peek-a-boo with my daughter, hike on the SHT, cook delicious meals and see local music when I find the time. Also, I love reading anything and everything and have a running list of books I want to get from the library—the list is over 200 books now! If you ever want a recommendation let me know.