I'm a photojournalist from California who moved my life to Istanbul, Turkey last year to document the refugee crisis. I love helping people, learning, listening to stories and discovering who a person is and how they absorb the world around them. I love to travel, cook, have one-sided conversations with my cat and occasionally paint.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Quite honestly, I'm too poor for Airbnb. Haven't heard of any sketchy experiences from my friends yet, so I figured, why not give it a try? I love meeting new people and traveling and think it's a pretty solid way to connect.

Interests

• cats
• culture
• cooking
• politics
• traveling
• painting
• swimming
• journalism
• plants

Music, Movies, and Books

I have quite an eclectic taste, so I rely on my current mood to direct me toward these things. My playlists can range from Crosby Stills and Nash to Leon Bridges to Ludovico Einaudi. I'm a sucker for a good period drama or documentary and think When Harry Met Sally takes the cake for best rom com. Joan Didion is my favorite author and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has a new book out that I would love to read.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I just did voiceover for the main character of a horror/strategy video game coming out at the end of the year. The amazing part of it all is that the main character is a 9-year-old girl and I am not.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I can teach some basic Turkish phrases and share what it's been like living under a "democracy." I can cook up a pretty impressive meal and pair it with some wine as a thank you for your hospitality. Also, if you have any photography related questions, well, you're in luck!

Countries I’ve Visited

Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Turkey

Countries I’ve Lived In

Turkey, United States