I am originally from Sussex, Wisconsin (near Milwaukee).  In 2013, I acquired my bachelor's degree in Communication with a minor in Psychology from Ripon College in Wisconsin.  Following graduation, I traveled to Russia to teach English & Communication at Tomsk Polytechnic University and two private English schools (English House and Interlang House of Languages), as well as do some volunteer work at a local church.  I then spent three months in Germany as a short-term au-pair, traveling to as many places in Europe as possible.  I then returned to the US to join the workforce as a Communication Specialist and Events Coordinator at an engineering company close to my hometown.  When I decided to pursue my Master's degree, I was drawn to Colorado State University and the Department of Communication Studies for their award-winning program with such a uniquely strong emphasis on teaching.