I'm a laid-back and outgoing personality that enjoys learning about culture and meeting people from around the world. My travels to Latin America as well as extensive teaching experience have given me fluency in the Spanish language. Aside from putting in long hours at my teaching job, I like to set time aside on the weekends for fun activities to give me the life balance I need. Some of my stress outlets are cooking, running, and getting outdoors to raise the serotonin levels. Bachelor and young professional with a genuine personality and an open-mind that is very hospitable.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I joined Couchsurfing in the Columbus area in the Fall of 2012 and went on a hiatus until recently. I've enjoyed a lot of the local Couchsurfing events such as pot luck dinners as well as weekend social events to bring people together. The best part I enjoyed was introducing people to the city as a local and to offer my hospitality, as many would should I visit their city. After a long drive or flight, getting used to a new city isn't an easy transition. So many of us are caught up in work or feel trapped at a hotel when traveling, which is why Couchsurfers had the appeal to meet new friends that would offer the same type of hospitality. Whether it's offering the couch to crash on or having the

Interests

Outside of teaching, I am very active physically and currently training for my first marathon in Toronto, Canada. Inside the apartment, I'm an avid amateur cook that likes to make vegetarian dishes from all over the world. Pad Thai, Gallo Pinto, or Palestinian Falafel, my palette knows no borders. Like most people here in Columbus, I'm a big Ohio State Buckeyes fan, but also cheer for Columbus Crew SC as well as the Blue Jackets. I also enjoy writing and blogging on local restaurants in Columbus. If you need someone with an expertise on the food scene, I'm definitely your go-to Couchsurfer.

• animals
• culture
• writing
• dining
• cooking
• breakfast
• vegetarian
• marathon
• running
• partying
• drinking
• traveling
• socializing
• blogging
• outdoor activities
• sports
• teaching

Music, Movies, and Books

Reggae, electronic dance music, and classic rock are some of the genres I like to follow the most whether I am in the car or just listening to it on Pandora. On my Netflix list, I enjoy watching a lot of historical documentaries, sports and action movies, as well as House of Cards. I tend to read a lot of online news from The Economist and New York Times to stay up to speed on world current events. I don't read for leisure as much as I should, but my hobbies do include learning a lot about culture and language to keep my mind sharp.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Ran my first half-marathon in two hours flat in October 2014 here in Columbus. I've also been published in two local print magazines as a food and sports writer.

Teach, Learn, Share

During the summer months, I tutor senior citizen refugees from Bhutan and Nepal for the U.S. Citizenship Test every weekend.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Front living room area has a love seat couch and full length (enough to accommodate two guests), or if you would like to bring an air mattress as an alternate option. I'm good about giving guests as much privacy as they need so as long as they are able to communicate their bedtime, showering time, as well as breakfast/lunch times.

I am a very outgoing person, yet my neighbors like to keep things on the quiet side as a sense of mutual respect. Having a drink or two is no big deal, but I trust my guest to be responsible and not be a party animal bringing back tons of people after a night out at the bar.

I have a full kitchen with lots of space; just make sure to clean up the dishes and leave the area clean. If guests would like to bring groceries to store in the fridge, just make sure that it is properly sealed (and disposed of if necessary).

For the bathroom, there is a shower stall and plenty of space to get ready. I do ask that my guests bring their own toiletries (soap, toothbrush, towels, etc.) and to pick up after themselves. If a guest needs to do laundry, there is a washer/dryer that is coin-operated (4 quarters/1 dollar per load).

Overall, it is a nice and quiet place to stay at located in the heart of downtown. Lots of conveniences, especially in the kitchen area to make the stay worthwhile. Making sure I have that trust and communication before that person stays is top priority.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Mexico

Countries I’ve Lived In

Mexico, United States