I'm originally from the Sacramento area, and I taught English at four community colleges and worked in a writing center on and off for 10 years before coming to UNR. I like Reno, but I'm not so much in love with the weather; I don't drive well in snow. I have BAs in English and History from Willamette University in Salem, OR. Fun fact: when I started college, my goal was to major in biology and go to medical school to become a forensic pathologist. I failed my first semester bio, though.
I'm currently working on a second Master's degree in Disability Services for Higher Education through City University of New York, so I'm also a student right along with you guys. So, I know a little about what you're going through - I've just been doing it for longer. This semester I'm taking classes on administration and adaptive technology.
When I'm not teaching or studying, I like to read, knit and crochet, and play the trumpet. In June of 2017 I was part of a group from my hometown that got invited to play at a festival at Carnegie Hall in New York, and this semester I'm excited to go back to playing with them - next summer (2020), we're going on a performance tour of Italy. That's one of the reasons I'm teaching an 8am class - I need to be able to make some rehearsals that start at 7pm in Woodland, my hometown. In February, I'm going to Santa Clara to a knitting convention, where I take classes every year. One of these years, the Sharks will be playing at home at the same time, and I can do two of my favorite things in one weekend - hockey and knitting.
I also volunteer locally; I work with the Food Bank of Northern Nevada, both in the warehouse and at food distribution events around town. I'm doing one this week at 6:30 AM - eep! I also help out at the animal shelter, playing with cats. I had a cat for 18 years, and I miss him even though it's been three years since he passed. I'd adopt again, but my apartment wants a non-refundable deposit and I'm not cool with that.
I love coffee, but you'll probably see me drinking tea more often in class. I miss being able to have a barbecue on my patio, so my dad grills out for me every time I come home. I have a little countertop grill that I use to make chicken and stuff, but I miss being able to sit out all weekend and smoke stuff like I did when I lived in California. I love all types of food, but I can almost always go for tacos.
I hope you guys are looking forward to a great semester! If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in a comment below.
