I'm originally from the US, but I've done quite a bit of traveling and spent almost three years in Germany while I finished my master's degree (Development Studies). I'm now living in Vienna as a researcher for an organization that studies "the science of science" (I'll do my best to explain what this means if we meet ;))

I'm really into philosophy and politics, and if allowed I can talk your ear off about these topics :) I especially enjoy listening to and discussing different perspectives on these things and the whole human experience in general.

I'm fully vaxxed and willing to follow any safety rules that you might have in place. I'm pretty relaxed and not really picky about accommodation or food or company, really just looking to meet some cool people, see some cool stuff, and have some cool experiences.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I've only had good experiences with the people I've met/stayed with, and I can't imagine a better way to really get to know the place you're staying. Plus almost everyone on this site has a cool world traveler/nature lover vibe.

On top of that, an advanced degree in economics has taught me that not everything that has value can be monetized. I really appreciate the aspect of this site that is just "people helping people because they want to help people."

Interests

My perfect day would involve reading a book in the park with a coffee, going for a long bike ride, sitting with friends at an outdoor cafe/biergarden, and watching/discussing a good film or talking about current goings-ons. A lot of my interests are things that I can do by myself, but I'll always jump at the chance to hang out with cool people, especially if it's outside.

• running
• gardening
• reading
• traveling
• cycling

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: Generally rock/metal, but I'm also a huge fan of Taylor Swift, so.
Movies: Anything deep, or trippy, or just fun. Favorites are The Watchmen, Scott Pilgrim vs the World, Inglorious Basterds, The Big Short, and Southland Tales. I watch a fair number of docos and independent films, too.
Books: Really into "classic" literature (Catch-22, The Jungle, anything Vonnegut or Kafka), but I've been reading a lot more philosophy-adjacent stuff recently. Always open to recommendations!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I did a three day hiking trip on one of New Zealand's "great walk" routes. It rained or snowed basically the entire time, and my feet were two large blisters. Wouldn't trade the experience for anything.

Teach, Learn, Share

I'm always excited to share things I've learned and hear new ideas about how this whole life thing should work. English lessons come standard :)

What I Can Share with Hosts

A good time, an uncomplicated experience, a good book recommendation :)

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Mexico, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom

Countries I’ve Lived In

Australia, Austria, France, Germany, United States