I am working in software development, but am most interested in branching out to learn more about ecology, biology, and conservation work. I am a very active person, and have tried or am down to try almost any sport / activity you can think. I spend most of my time climbing, running, playing basketball, hiking, or doing gymnastics. I have recently been learning to play guitar, but am not the most impressive. And I have always done a lot of cooking, so I would love to cook a meal for you or learn to cook something new!

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I want to meet incredible new people and have wonderful experiences that I never could have come up with on my own. I want to grow to understand the culture and people of wherever it is that I am travelling. I Couchsurf because I want to meet you and have a cool conversation/experience. I also love the community around sharing and giving. I think Couchsurfing provides a way to be part of a bigger community of giving and encouraging everyone to explore, no matter their limitations.

Interests

• culture
• cooking
• reading
• hiking
• backpacking
• skiing
• basketball
• rock climbing
• philosophy
• film
• science fiction
• farming
• hanging out

Music, Movies, and Books

Music: I am down to listen to almost anything, and tend to listen to mostly indie music myself, but am always open to new music. Some of my favorite artists are The 1975, J Cole, The Japanese House

Books: I read both fiction and non-fiction. My favorite fiction author is Haruki Murakami - I have read almost all of his books at least once, and am slowly building a collection. Lately I find myself reading books on the natural world and the creatures all around us. I am fascinated to learn more about the mysteries and beauty of nature.

Movies: I watch movies all the time, and am always down to watch / rewatch something! It is one of my favorite pastimes. Anything from a cheesy horror movie to a great documentary!

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I have run a half-Marathon barefoot! Ask me about barefoot running if you want to hear more!

Teach, Learn, Share

Teaching is a big part of my life, as I did college tutoring in a few different subjects. I've also done a fair amount of elementary school tutoring with younger students. I find it very rewarding to help people and take down some of the barriers that we feel separate us from one another. It can be hard to realize it in the moment, but helping someone even just a little bit makes you a part of their life. I had dozens of elementary students write me notes when I left one of the schools, and I still have every single one of them to this day. Going back and reading them makes me cry almost every time I do it.
But honestly I am even more passionate about discovering new things and learning from others. You never realize what you don't know until someone shows you, and I see beauty in that. The reason I like to read non-fiction is that sometimes books can completely change the course of my life. A great example of that is the book "In Defense of Food" by Michael Pollan, which led me towards working on a farm. That's why I'm always looking for new experiences and conversations with others. One little idea could potentially have such a positive effect on my life, but I have to go find it.

What I Can Share with Hosts

First of all, I will absolutely respect any rules or requirements that you put in place. I understand how big of a deal it can be to open your home to someone and I will never take advantage of that. If there are every any tasks or chores I can do to be helpful, or I am doing something that crosses a line for you, do not hesitate at all to let me know. You are doing an amazing thing for me and I want to reciprocate that to you as well. I would absolutely love to help/observe with any cooking you do. I am extremely passionate about cooking, and taking home new tips/recipes would be incredible for me. I am always open to conversation, and am a very open person in general. I love friendly debates and discussing topics that most people are scared of, simply because I can always learn something new. It is almost impossible to offend me. I will always try something once, so I would love to go on an adventure, or just grab a drink/coffee/meal and chat about life and philosophy.

Countries I’ve Visited

Austria, Germany, Ireland, Switzerland

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States