I received my bachelors degree in Normal, IL and stayed to complete a masters in Cultural Anthropology. While an undergrad, I studied abroad in Ankara, Turkey and found out that there is literally nothing better than traveling. I haven't been able to travel too much since as a graduate student, but this summer I have a chance to (even if it's still within the US). I love cats, drinking (both at the same time are good), learning, experiencing new places, eating new foods, and apparently randomly booking a plane ticket to LA. I'm a very open-minded person; whatever your suggestion, I'm probably game. Examples include: want to go on a hot air balloon at 4 am? Sure!! Want to climb to the top of Aphrodite's mountain?? Absolutely! Want to try staying overnight at a hostel for free because you forgot to book an extra night, and then get kicked out at 5 am onto the empty, dark streets of Catalonia?? Duh!

I study Cultural Anthropology, Human/Political Geography, and Sexuality Studies.
I've lived in Ankara, Turkey, and I've traveled to Cyprus, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Austria.

Currently looking for someone to show me around LA for my first time solo traveling!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Looking for places to stay and hoping to meet new people when traveling around. A place is better experienced with someone from that place; Lonely Planet can only tell me so much.

Interests

Traveling, cultural anthropology, Turkish culture

Also love food, hiking, biking, and drinking.

I'm interested in having and living experiences for the sake of experience.

• cats
• culture
• writing
• drinking
• reading
• traveling
• hiking
• backpacking
• anthropology
• food
• learning languages
• relaxing
• biking
• different cultures
• exploring
• learning
• exploring new places
• drinks

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: American Rock and modern R&B
Books: Pride and Prejudice
Movies: The Mummy, Jurassic Park, Amélie

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Lived in Turkey! Actually probably going in a hot air balloon (I was terrified).
I also traveled across Europe with just my sister and a normal school backpack full of clothes and necessities. We know how to rough it.

Teach, Learn, Share

My research field mostly concerns American awareness of other cultures, though now my specialty is sexualities and human geography.
I can tell you all about my experiences in Turkey and Europe, and would love to hear about the places you've been to and what you know personally about your area(s). I also have an affinity for local foods and would love to go out and eat!!
Since one of my focuses is archaeology, I was able to tell a past host more about a site he visited than he knew.
I love learning everything about everywhere I go, and would love to share with you!

What I Can Share with Hosts

My travel experiences and fields of study are interesting to most people and I love to talk about it!

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Canada, Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Spain, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Turkey, United States