Why did you choose the subject area that you teach?

I did very poorly on my first essay in college, which panicked me. But then I reflected on how little I had to write in high school and resolved to work really hard to improve that skill. As I took more English classes, I renewed my love of reading and as my writing improved I started to feel very empowered.

What do you find most rewarding about teaching and working with students?

Every teacher loves the "aha" moments they witness when students discover something that they find fascinating or gain competency with a new skill. But I also really love the challenge of working with students on their writing to make sure they don't go to college and have my experience of feeling incompetent and ill-prepared.

How do you connect with and engage students in the learning process?

I think it is incumbent on every teacher to patiently lay out for the students the value of everything they are asking them to do. I try to choose literature that will both challenge and engage them, and I work hard to figure out how to scaffold classes to maximize the chance of "aha" moments. I also show them that I am willing to work as hard to help them improve their writing as they are by getting essays back to them as quickly as possible with thoughtful comments that give them specific pathways forward.

Beyond the classroom, what are some of your interests or hobbies that you’re passionate about?

I enjoy reading, exercise in many forms, and following the Orioles and the University of Virginia basketball team.

What do you hope students will take away from your classes or your mentorship?

A deeper appreciation of literature, perhaps even a passion for it, and the empowerment that comes from being able to say more precisely and elegantly what they mean. I also hope they know how much I am on their side and am rooting for them to be successful and fulfilled.