CURRENT MISSION

Trying to find an adventure to have before the summer ends and the school year begins anew!

ABOUT ME

I am, for the most part, a Chicago native. I grew up nearby, and even throughout college I've always been pretty close. Now I live within the city and I spend my non-summer days teaching at a pretty awesome elementary school.

Summer days? Well... that all depends on what's going on and who's around. Shows, restaurants, street fests, relaxing at home, or just a good workout in the park.

PHILOSOPHY

According to Antonio, I want to do good in the world. I won't disagree, but I may not be quite as philanthropic as that sounds. I care about people, which is most likely what led me to become a teacher. When I really try to break it down, I just like being happy and seeing people around me happy. A little thank you and you're welcome go a long way.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I participate by hosting people when I can, getting to know as many people and making as many connections around Chicago as I can, and making those same connections in other cities as well.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

I initially participated without knowing, actually. My roommate was out of town, and I received a phone call from his father asking if one of the students he taught/worked with could stay with me in Chicago for a weekend. It was either that or he'd be sleeping in his car. I felt terrible at the thought, so I agreed (of course I never really planned to decline in the first place). When he arrived, he had brought a small thank-you gift, and was quite the pleasant person. He wasn't around much, but during one of our brief talks, he told me about Couch Surfing and how it would be great for me to check out. So I did.

Since then, I've couchsurfed a few different places and met loads of great people. Also have hosted a couple times and am excited to do so again! (Especially in the summer when I'm off work and can do pretty much whatever!)

Interests

Live music, especially Traditional Irish music, Punk rock, reggae, ska, and soul, though I like going to shows in general. Biking around Chicago, camping and pretty much anything else outdoors. Trying new foods and drinks is also a great time. One of my great weaknesses is trying new restaurants.

• drinking
• traveling
• music
• live music
• outdoor activities
• cycling
• camping
• surfing
• teaching

Music, Movies, and Books

Movies - Army of Darkness, Zombieland, Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead, The 13th Warrior, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Monty Python... I could go on and on and on.

Music - The Pogues, The Tossers, The Dubliners, Woody Guthrie, Stan Rogers, Rancid, Toots and the Maytals, Heather Alexander, again... I'll stop there.

Books - Stephen King's Dark Tower Series, Harry Potter, David Sedaris, Brian Jacques...

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

One amazing thing I've done or seen? Just one? I've seen a kid go from being the toughest, meanest, most selfish little brat you could ever imagine break down into a totally emotional wreck in a matter of seconds. Everyone has feelings, deep down, and though it's tough to remember sometimes, it's important to always try to be helpful and do what's right.

Teach, Learn, Share

I'll teach you where the best burgers and sausages are in Chicago! Okay, okay... I'll be serious. I'll teach you some traditional Irish songs if you'd like, or about the wonderful grid system that helps me get around the city daily. I'd like to learn about the traveling you've done and the people you've met. I'm also trying to learn mandolin and harmonica right now, so any tips would be awesome! Most importantly, I hope to share a good time with the people I meet.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Costa Rica, Ireland, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States

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