I grew up in North Carolina, and didn't go too far for school. At UNC Chapel Hill I studied Environmental Science with a focus in Energy & Sustainability and a minor in Chemistry. I got the opportunity to study abroad for 7 months in Bangkok and it was the best decision I've ever made. I was with 11 of the most amazing, inspiring, beautiful people who adventured with me to many different places. I however realized that the science side of my degree doesn't appeal to me as much as the social and natural world in which we all live in together. I am uncertain in a career path but hope to be able to influence people outside of my realm and make the world a more sustainable place.
I was the President of the nation's first Environmental Honors Fraternity, Epsilon Eta, I coached CrossFit classes at the University and frequented a local bouldering gym. I worked in an EPA lab as well as a greek restaurant. I found that if I wasn't busy I was bored, and this is how I choose to live my life every day. I love learning new things, helping people, and being a good influence. If you have any knowledge or wisdom to impart on me, please do!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I have couchsurfed in Genoa before, and hosted people in my dorm room a few years ago, but haven't had a chance to get super involved until now. While on this roadtrip to see all the National Parks and visit states we never knew anything about, we'd love to save money and meet people from the area. My favorite way to get to know a place is to do whatever someone I trust advices, and so couchsurfing seemed like the perfect way to stay!

Interests

I love anything outdoorsy, especially kayaking, running and bouldering. Also I enjoy learning about different people and places and expanding my knowledge of the world.

• photography
• dining
• beer
• running
• crossfit
• socializing
• bouldering
• guitar
• kayaking
• rock climbing
• chemistry
• science
• study abroad
• parks

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: The Avett Brothers, Sylvan Esso, Lord Huron, Jesse Woods, Frank Ocean, Bombino, Bruce Springsteen, Foals

Movies: Pulp Fiction, American Psycho, The Sandlot

Books: Another Roadside Attraction, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, One Hundred Years of Solitude, Never Cry Wolf, The Passion, The Alchemist, Cutting For Stone, Slaughterhouse 5, The World According to Garp

Really I've never met a book I haven't appreciated. Book suggestions are always welcome!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

While my sister was visiting me while I lived in Thailand, I took her to the North. We had to catch a van from Chiang Mai to Pai and when we got to the stop there was one seat left in the last van for the day. I told my sister to take it and that I'd meet her at the elephant lodge the next morning at 9am, no matter what. With no idea how that was going to happen, my friend and I hitchhiked north with one man, then caught another ride in the back of a pickup. This road is around 100km with 762 curves, and we didn't completely understand how far these men could take us. But it turned into night, they bought us beers for the ride, and we accepted our fate. We turn into a neighborhood where they lived and they housed us in a beautiful open-air home for the night in the loft. I woke up to a Thai man playing guitar on a balcony in what turns out to be a Christian commune in northern Thailand. They fed us in the church and took us straight into Pai, where I met my sister at the elephant lodge by 9am. It's amazing the things you can do, find, and see by having no plans. And the wonderful people who make amazing experiences possible.

Teach, Learn, Share

I could talk about photography, environmental issues, good food, trees and experiences for days, but I love hearing what others can teach me and what they are passionate about.

What I Can Share with Hosts

A healthy and delicious meal, usually involving kale and onions. Also beer and good conversation.

Countries I’ve Visited

Cambodia, Canada, Costa Rica, France, Indonesia, Italy, Myanmar, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Thailand, United States