I recently accepted a position as a Ph.D. candidate in Theology at Marquette University. Throughout my 20s I have spent 5 five in religious formation before discerning out after doing the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius. Spending that time in formation gifted me with the experiences of living at a monastery in southern Indiana, teaching middle school math on a Lakota reservation in South Dakota, and spending six months in a Jesuit noviciate in St. Paul, MN. Since that time, I have taught high school theology, earned an M.A. in philosophy from Boston College and an M.A. in theology from St. Meinrad. I am currently working as an electrician in Effingham, IL.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I love to meet new people to expand my horizons and make new and meaningful connections. Also, I love traveling and doing it by getting to know the people who live in the city such that I can experience the city from within. In addition to this I hope to share with those I encounter the gifts and talents that I possess such that I can further give away what I have been so blessed to receive.

Music, Movies, and Books

My favorite music depends a lot upon my mood as well as the season of the year. During the summertime, I tend to listen to more country because there is a light, playful feel to the music. However, during the winter I tend more towards listening to alternative rock because there is both a warmth and heaviness to the music. I also like folk music all year especially Passenger, and I will also listen to contemporary pop. In terms of books, I would have to say that Dostoevsky is my favorite novelist, but I primarily read philosophy. The most influential books that I have read are the following: The Confessions by St. Augustine, Summa Contra Gentiles by Aquinas, and Being and Time by Heidegger. I don't know what would be a movie that has dramatically impacted me, but I am very open to suggestions.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

A thirty day silent retreat

What I Can Share with Hosts

I have had a variety of experiences which I have reflected upon in some depth. I also can get along with almost anybody and hold conversations on a variety of topics (I'm interested in nearly everything). I would consider myself to be very open-minded and I welcome all types of insights and advice. In addition to this, I have a playful personality that tends to bring a real lightheartedness to my social environment.

Countries I’ve Visited

Australia, Israel, Italy, Mexico

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States