CURRENT MISSION

Gathering Arizona adventures

ABOUT ME

I just moved to Tempe, Arizona in June (2013) to start a PhD in the Environmental Life Sciences program at Arizona State University. My research interests include biogeochemistry, stream ecology, urban ecology, and nutrient cycling. This means I spend a lot of my time studying microbial life in soil and water.

I am so excited to be living in Arizona. I've been having a blast getting to explore different parts of the state. I am an outdoors enthusiast enjoying rock climbing, hiking, camping, and skiing,of which Arizona has a plenty!

When I'm not having my outdoor adventures, I enjoy climbing at the local rock gym in Tempe and dancing. Swing dancing is my favorite dance, but I do all types (contra, salsa, blues, merengue). I am always open to learning new dances! When I'm feeling a bit lower energy, I like to stay home and cook or watch a movie or both. My favorite cuisines to cook are Mexican and Indian food. I am equally enthusiastic about eating anything and everything!

I am originally from the suburbs of New York City, but I have been living in Lancaster, Pennsylvania for the past four years to attend college.

PHILOSOPHY

Everything is better with a smile and laughter

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I'd like to start surfing and meet some new people!

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

None as of yet, but stories to come soon.

Interests

Meeting new people, climbing, algae, hiking, swing dancing (and any type of dancing), denitrifying bacteria, traveling, pancakes, watching movies, beer-drinking, skiing, sleeping in on Sunday mornings and much, much more.

• dancing
• swing dancing
• dining
• cooking
• indian food
• beer
• drinking
• movies
• traveling
• blues
• outdoor activities
• cycling
• hiking
• camping
• surfing
• skiing
• rock climbing
• ecology

Music, Movies, and Books

The Black Keys always know just what to say.

Amalia Essentials Books
The Sparrow by Mary Doria Russell
The Handmaid's Tale and Oryx and Crake by Margaret Atwood
The Education of Little Tree by Forrest Carter
Bonk by Mary Roach

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

A few weeks ago, I saw a road runner for the first time. My life will never be the same.

Teach, Learn, Share

I can teach you the seven oxidation states of nitrogen. I'm also an avid knitter.

I would really like to learn some wilderness first aid.

Countries I’ve Visited

Ecuador, France, Iceland, India, New Zealand, Spain

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States