I’m a nomad (I’ve lived in 3 countries and 4 states), career transitioner (former neuroscientist now working in tech), and lifelong learner (3 degrees and counting). For the last 5 years I’ve been working in educational technology, and I've spent my free time doing community outreach related to career transitions, largely focused on early career researchers—my former cohort.

This program excites me because it's something that I wish I'd had in my 20s. My experience as a twenty-something was nothing like my parents—my dad was a solider in Vietnam and my mom got married at 21—they both worked in stable office jobs that they each held for 20+ years. I, on the other hand, went to college to study science, which led to a pretty unstable, nomadic lifestyle. I didn't have any adults in my life growing up who had an experience even close to this, so I received very little (or relevant) guidance from anyone. This has led me to take the "long-way" round (several times) only to find out later that there was a better way.

While making mistakes and learning from failure is a staple of life, I would like to use my learning experiences to help younger individuals know about as many of the choices available to them as possible. I recently heard the phrase "lift as you climb", and I think that being a mentor at Twenty will help me lift others—even if only one step at a time.

Outside of work and mentoring, I’m going to school (again!) for an executive MBA to shore up my business skills. My free time is mostly spent hanging out with my two cats (Mick and Oscar), enjoying the performing arts (I love theater and standup), and learning to be a better artist (I’m taking a linocut class soon that I’m really excited about).

• Moving into management
• Getting promoted
• Transitioning careers
• Business for science majors
• Skilling up in your current career
• Resume reviews

• Studying & living abroad
• Pros & cons of being a nomad
• Not letting introversion be a crutch
• Whether graduate school will get you the results you want
• Doing a degree online
• Being a cat mom (or dad)

• Candid but kind. I will be honest with you, but I won’t be cruel. Some realities are harsh, but with the right perspective, they don’t hurt (as much).
• A level-setter. Sometimes we all spiral out a bit, I can help provide clarity and bring you back. It’s probably not as bad as you think.
• An (older) perspective. My 20s are over. I’m to the point in my career where I’ve actually managed people in their 20s and I might be able to help you understand your boss or your (slightly) older colleagues a little better.