---from September 2017: Currently traveling; unable to host guests at this time---

Hi! I'm Melanie, an American (born and raised in Texas) living in South Korea (PLEASE. SEND. MEXICAN FOOD.). I graduated with a degree in Elementary Education and have since realized teaching is NOT for me. Oops?! I enjoy working with people with disabilities (and Special Olympics bowling is my jam!) and hope to return to school for a nursing degree and move back into this field in the near future.

Things people would say about me: sarcastic (but funny!), adventurous, good cook, loyal, responsible, decent singer.
Things people would NEVER say about me: good at sports, great hand-eye coordination, has a sense of direction, fits into the typical "I'm from small-town America" mold.

I'm currently teaching English (or attempting to, anyway) to middle school girls in South Korea (hence the realizing teaching isn't for me!). I live in a nice little rural town and like to get out exploring when I can. I like cats, Matt Damon, cooking, and--these days--Korean saunas. If you want to spend time in rural Korea, come stay with me!

I first learned about Couchsurfing a few years ago and signed up, but never really thought about again at that time. When I finish my contract here in Korea, I will be traveling a bit before heading home and a friend reminded me about this community!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Like all of us on here I'm sure, I enjoy traveling and meeting new people. Couchsurfing has always seemed like such a cool concept to me and I hope to try it out as both a host and guest! Although I dig traveling solo and have had some fantastic experiences, my favorite travels have always been where I've visited friends or met cool new friends along the way.

Interests

Cooking (I've really enjoyed taking cooking classes while traveling.)
Singing (Koreans love their singing rooms and they might be one of my favorite things about the country!)
NOT playing sports (Seriously, it's best for everyone this way. I have zero athletic abilities...although I do enjoy running and got really into half marathons a few years ago!)

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Patty Griffin, cheesy pop music, old school country (I'm from Texas after all!)

Movies: the glorious Die Hard franchise, any and all Bourne, Men in Black, musicals.

Books: I'll read most anything if it seems interesting. I like cozy mysteries (some poor soul got murdered, but hey--there's an adorable local coffee-shop owner/amateur sleuth who comes to the rescue!), travel writing (a la Bill Bryson), and non-fiction--usually something that makes me think.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I lived in community with adults with intellectual disabilities for 3 1/2 years before moving to Korea to teach English. It was an amazing experience and I miss my friends there dearly. I'm pumped about traveling at the moment, but also can't wait to get back to the US and spend time with my friends at Down Home Ranch! (www.downhomeranch.org)

What I Can Share with Hosts

Umm...witty banter? But seriously, I'm keen to share a bit about myself and learn about others. I can make a mean breakfast spread and would love to karaoke the night away with you if you're up for it! Although a bit of an introvert, I really enjoy having good conversations with people over a cup of coffee and learning something new!

Countries I’ve Visited

Cambodia, China, England, France, Germany, India, Italy, Laos, Malaysia, Mexico, Myanmar, Philippines, Russian Federation, Scotland, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Viet Nam

Countries I’ve Lived In

Scotland, South Korea, United States