Author’s Bio

An exit from 2500’ in Eugene, Oregon

Welcome and thanks for checking out my blog!

This bio page is my chance to tell you a little bit about myself. First, this site was inspired by a former GTF I had while attending the University of Oregon. What started out as a class project, turned into a means of self-expression and an outlet to share my thoughts with the world.

Now let me tell you a little bit about myself.

I love to live life to the fullest. I enjoy skydiving, scuba diving, dining out and traveling. In truth, there is very little that doesn’t interest me on some level. For example, I’ve collected comic books and stamps.

Writing became a passion for me several years ago when a former classmate asked me to write an article for her newspaper. I reluctantly accepted.

The article had a positive response from the public, which I found exhilarating. I discovered that I liked connecting with people and sharing my thoughts. I accepted several more writing opportunities that came along. As I gained experience, I started to pitch ideas for articles and freelance to other media outlets.

A few years later, I lost my “day job” due to a Plant Shutdown (Page 2). That life altering challenge gave me a rare opportunity to pursue a new career path. I decided to enroll at the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication (SOJC) and pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism.

SCUBA diving, Isla Mujeres, Mexico

As an SOJC student, I got the chance to intern for a skydiving company (called a Dropzone) near Eugene, Oregon. The internship required me to develop a social media presence, write press releases, cultivate relationships, and handle external communications. A particularly tremendous experience was working with ESPN’s College GameDay crew when they came to town to cover an Oregon Ducks football game.

During my internship I wrote several articles that got published in national magazines. The articles had a positive influence on the company and helped inspire DZOs (dropzone owners) facing similar circumstances. It was quite rewarding when DZOs would contact me and credit the article as inspiration to fight for better airport access.

On December 18, 2013, I earned my degree in public relations.

Through this blog I hope to expose people to a different point of view, or inspire someone to try a new experience that may not have been considered otherwise.

Thanks for visiting. I hope you enjoy what you see here.

—Cheers and happy travels!

Completing a skydive near Portland, Ore

Site seeing in Boracay, Philippines

Bikes parked along a canal in Amsterdam