About Me
I am first-generation college grad born and raised in Holland, Michigan. I love the outdoors, sports, concerts, and making memories with friends and family.
I was raised by a single mother and my grandmother for most of my life. No matter what difficulties we faced while I was growing up, school always felt like safe space for me. I put all my energy into academics and my community and it paid off when I received a full ride scholarship to the University of Michigan through the Holland/Zeeland Community Foundation.
Being the first in my family to attend college was a huge milestone in my life but it also came with many challenges. It was a difficult journey but I persevered and made the most of my undergrad experience. I participated in several clubs, took leadership positions, and went on study abroad.
My journey at the Michigan continued when I was accepted into the School of Information for graduate school and was awarded the UMSI Achievement Fellowship.
Towards the end of my first year of graduate school, I was a passenger in a serious car accident and sustained some serious injuries and fractured bones. Although this impacted my second semester classes and summer plans I was able to catch up on credits while recovering and graduate on time.
I am very grateful for each opportunity that has come my way. I never thought I would make it this far but now I am excited to see all the heights I can reach.

This picture was taken in Amsterdam while I was attending the UX Insights Research Conference in the Netherlands. Being from Holland, MI made my trip feel vaguely familiar.
So far, I have been to eight countries, including Japan, Spain, Italy, France, and the UK, to name a few. I love trying new foods and learning about new cultures.
