-
Born
I was born in Arvada, Colorado on June 29, 1990. My father is a biomedical engineer and my mother owns a dance studio. I grew up in upper-middle class suburbia. I've experienced many privileges during my life. My mom has been teaching dance classes for 30 years. Although she never had formal training, she has natural talent and professionalism. This enabled her to start her own business. My mom was even teaching when she was nine months pregnant with me - so my teaching/dancing comes naturally. -
Took First Dance Class
I began dancing when I was two years old. This is earlier than we usually recommend - but I couldn't wait! Dance classes have instilled many personality traits and vlaues in me, including: teamwork, leadership, creativity, grace, sportsmanship, and stage presence. -
Started Teaching Dance Classes
I began teaching private lessons at age 13. I was incredibly lucky to have such an opportunity at such a young age - an opportunity made because of my mother and our studio. I have worked with students of all ages and abilities, including some with special needs. I've learned that all students have talent and potential - it's the teacher's job to bring it out. -
Trip to Tokyo, Japan
In 2008, I traveled to Tokyo, Japan. I stayed with a host family and attended an all-girls 6-12th grade private school. My trip was eye opening - I am half Japanese, but the cultural differences I experienced there were extreme! I gained perspective on what it's like to have language as a barrier - I don't speak any Japanese. Luckily, my teachers and classmates were very understanding. Being at an all-girls school also showed me the unique education for all girls - it's challenging but powerful. -
Learned Hummingbird Folktale
While in college, I first heard the African folktale of the hummingbird. Since then, I've adopted it as one of my personal principles for education as well as life. I think it's important to "just do the best I can." You can watch a video about the Humminbird Folktale here:
Hummingbird Video -
Published Honors Thesis
As part of the Honors Program at Regis, I wrote a thesis about the biological and cultural roots of beauty standards. I found that most of these ideals come from biological mechanisms for mate selection, which are expanded and exaggerated through society. This first sparked my interest in public health and sex education - subject that I'm passionately persuing as an educator.
"Maybe She's Born With It" -
Graduated from Regis University
-
Participated in my first protest!
SlutWalk Denver is a rally for social justice and a protest against slut shaming, victim blaming, body policing and sexual assault. Personal motivations and my desire for social justice have lead me to activism - a characteristic that I think is an important part of my philosophy of education. We must be allies and advocates for our students! You can read more info about SlutWalk here:
Slut Walk Denver -
Began Working with Beforeplay
Beforeplay.org is a non-profit through the Colorado Department of Health which goals include unintended pregnancy prevention and the prevention of STIs. My work there was mainly outreach for non-dominant groups in Denver including Latinos, LGBT youth, and the homeless. Justice and equity for all in reproductive health issues has become my passion!
http://beforeplay.org -
Enrolled in Regis Univeristy CPS for M.Ed in Secondary Education
All of my previous experiences have led me to understand my true vocation is teaching. Through my work with the dance studio and with the state department of health, as well as many other experiences, I know now that teaching is in my heart. I coulnd't be happier to be back at my alma mater to study education!
