My name is Melissa. I love to read, explore new places, and eat! I am from San Diego but go to school in Portland. I am about to graduate from Lewis and Clark college, with a degree in psychology. I currently am also volunteering as a crisis counselor and loving the experience. I've lived in Siena, Italy for four months with a host family. (Parlo italiano, ma non molto bene!) My dad is from Göttingen, Germany so I can understand German fairly well, but really don't speak it anymore--I'm planning on relearning some soon.

I strive to always keep an open mind, say yes to new experiences, and always be kind!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I've discovered that I prefer to experience new places with the locals. I feel like I get a deeper understanding of where I'm traveling when I get to interact with those from the area. And I love sharing my home with people--it makes me happy to see them enjoy the places that I love so much.

Interests

Books, board games (and strategy tabletop games), the beach, swimming, trying new foods, baking with friends, walking, hiking, journaling, archaeology, and psychology.

• books
• baking
• walking
• hiking
• swimming
• psychology
• beaches

Music, Movies, and Books

East of Eden, House on Mango Street, Harry Potter, The Giver, and many more books. I love to talk books!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Visiting Pompeii on a stormy day, hearing thunder and seeing Mt. Vesuvius in the background... That was pretty amazing for me!

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can share my love of games, food, talk, laughter and general enthusiasm for the experience.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, England, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Mexico, Netherlands, Sweden, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Italy, United States