Since I was in college, I knew that I wanted to become involved in understanding and helping people. How that was going to happen took a somewhat indirect route. I was on a path to pursue research in graduate school for social psychology, then I switched to educational counseling and earned a PPS credential. While working on that credential, I got a job working at Blach Intermediate School as an aide working in the academic communications program. After completing that credential, I earned a master’s degree and became a special education teacher. I took over the teaching position in the academic communications program. I have worked with this population of students for 13 years now and love the opportunities it affords to teach, problem-solve, and connect with students and their families. Outside of work, there are a lot of things I enjoy. I love to spend time with my amazing wife and two children. I like to play and watch sports, especially basketball and soccer. I also really enjoy playing video, board, and card games. Besides that, I have loved cooking for a long time and have recently added a love of baking to my kitchen exploits.