I am currently living in Austria and working as an English teaching assistant at some local schools. My main goal from living in Austria is to improve my German as much as possible, and since I arrived in September 2017, I can honestly say I'm getting there.
Having the chance to live in Europe has opened my eyes to travelling and all of the possibilities of exploring new places. I have been very fortunate to have seen a lot a place and meet wonderful people, I just hope to continue this for as long as I can.
I have only a couple more months left in Austria but I plan on continuing my travels when I go back to the US.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Saving money is the obvious reason to join Couchsurfing. The other big reason is wanting to gain a local's perspective and hopefully a friendship while travelling to new cities. It'd be great to have more friends who are also interested in travelling!

Interests

I studied linguistics and German Studies at university, so needless to say I have an interest in languages.
Learning about culture through food is a big priority on any adventure- especially discovering a culture's snack/junk foods. I find that very exciting.
I also have an affinity for Japanese anime/manga. I don't always have time to keep up with current shows, but watching a season or two on a lazy day is a past-time for me.
I really like to make art in my spare time. I have had a DSLR camera for 9 years now and I love being able to take pictures during my travels. I am also learning how to draw and paint. I find it very relaxing and satisfying to make art.
I have in interest in physical activities like hiking and bike rides! My favorite sport is swimming.

• arts
• culture
• photography
• dining
• cooking
• anime
• traveling
• painting
• cycling
• hiking
• archery
• languages
• study abroad

Music, Movies, and Books

Favorite music genres: classic rock & heavy metal
Favorite bands: Metallica, Foreigner, Iron Maiden, The Eagles
Favorite movies: Midnight in Paris, Big Hero 6, Alien
Favorite books: Shadow of the Wind, The Hobbit, Jurassic Park

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I was a competitive archer for three years, and I had the chance to shoot against an Olympian during individual competition rounds. Even though she won 4/5 rounds, I was able to win one round at my most difficult distance while recovering from an injury. It was one of the best moments of my life.

Teach, Learn, Share

Coming to Europe has shown me how prideful I am and how much I dislike being wrong. This can cause a bit of discomfort during an activity whose excitement is wholly created from uncertainty. One thing I have learned is to not take myself so seriously- it's a daily effort, but having a better attitude improves even just everyday experiences.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I enjoy cooking for people, I do amateur photography (portraits, landscape, abstract), I teach archery and I'm a good listener.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Croatia, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Scotland, Slovenia, Switzerland

Countries I’ve Lived In

Austria, Germany, United States