After graduating at the top of my class from the University of Washington with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering, I spent 5 years working as a chemical engineer. Although I enjoyed the challenging nature of my job, I found that it lacked the dedication to helping others that I enjoyed. Searching for a new career, I volunteered at an alternative high school in Bellingham and also at the Northwest Outward Bound School in Mazama, Washington. I quickly realized that I was passionate about teaching, so I went back to school to get my credentials at Western Washington University. During this time, I continued to instruct at Outward Bound and led mountaineering trips for the Outdoor Center at Western. After earning a Master's in Teaching with endorsements in chemistry and mathematics, I embarked on my second career, this time in the high school classroom. Over the next 15 years I taught General, Honors, STEM, and AP Chemistry, and various levels of mathematics to differing ability levels. In 2023 I transitioned to teaching General Chemistry at Central Oregon Community College. Watching the light bulb turn on as one of my students goes from "I'm confused." to "I finally get it!" is the highlight of my job. I find teaching to be more challenging and far more rewarding than chemical engineering ever was. I love what I do!