Growing up on the east coast of Florida, my interest in science and animals began when I was very young. Throughout my childhood, I was heavily involved with equestrian sports which fostered my then-dream of becoming an equine veterinarian. I attended the University of Florida, earning a Bachelor of Science in Animal Sciences, with an emphasis on animal biology. It was there that I discovered my passion for animal physiology. After working as an undergraduate research assistant on large animal research studies and through excellent mentorship, I decided to instead pursue graduate school in large animal research. I did my Masters in Science in Physiology of Reproduction from Texas A&M University College Station studying 1) neuroendocrine control of reproductive seasonality in mares and 2) the effects of prenatal and postnatal nutrition on neuroendocrine and reproductive development in beef heifers. Though my studies were heavily in large animal agriculture, my degree program was focused on a “one-health” perspective, emphasizing the importance and interrelationship between physiology disciplines. 

My teaching experience began in graduate school as a graduate teaching assistant with courses in 1) Animal Reproductive Anatomy and Physiology and 2) Animal Reproductive Management. Though I enjoy research, it was there that I fell in love with teaching and continued to pursue that career. 

Beginning in 2019, I began teaching Anatomy and Physiology as well as General Biology courses at Central Texas College (CTC) in Killeen, TX. I’ve taught lectures, labs, synchronous live courses (video conferencing), and fully online courses. In 2023, I became the Online Faculty Manager for Science and Agriculture at CTC, supervising the department’s online faculty alongside teaching my courses. However, after having children of my own and wanting to be closer to home, I decided to come back home to Florida, and I am now beginning my adventure at Florida Southern!