I’m an intellectually curious but very down-to-earth traveler who values thoughtful conversation and genuine human connection. I spend much of my professional life thinking about people, materials, and environments, and I tend to bring that same attentiveness into how I experience new places and relate to others. I am genuinely interested in people and tend to connect easily through conversation, whether over morning coffee, during a walk through the neighborhood, at dinner, or in the quieter moments at the end of the day. I’ve been told repeatedly that I listen well and that people feel comfortable around me, which I take seriously and try to live up to. What I emphasize most during a visit is presence: paying attention, being respectful, and sharing time in a way that feels natural rather than transactional.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing appeals to me because it prioritizes interaction over economic exchange (yes, even considering the fact that there are fees), and it offers the possibility of connection, learning, and even friendship. I’m looking to meet people, understand them, and share perspective together, though I’m also comfortable with quiet and independence. I will always respect the rhythms and boundaries of the homes I’m invited into. I’m also eager to give back by hosting in western Washington, the spectacular place where I’ve lived for 11 years.

Interests

• writing
• architecture
• design
• reading
• geography
• history
• sustainability
• archaeology
• museums
• symphony

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I was a Teach For America corps member in Cleveland, Ohio, where I taught 5th and 6th social studies. I have since taught students in all of grades 5-12.

Teach, Learn, Share

I enjoy exchanging ideas, especially around culture, architecture, and similar topics. I have expertise in a few areas and interests in many. I also practice several hobbies, which are always great fun to share. Above all, I enjoy conversations about life—its meaning, challenges, and contradictions—approached with curiosity rather than certainty. Although doing activities together (visiting a museum, attending a symphonic concert, etc.) isn't a requirement, it could be fun and rewarding depending on the circumstances.

What I Can Share with Hosts

My daily rhythm tends toward slow mornings followed by time out exploring, social evenings, and late nights reading or working. I drink alcohol lightly and situationally (a glass of wine or a well-made cocktail), but I am not a party-oriented traveler. I’m clean, considerate, and happy to help with small household routines like dishes. Overall, I value safe, comfortable environments and quality interactions, and I offer attentiveness, respect, and good conversation in return. Generally speaking, one practical need is a reasonably private space for sleeping, though I do understand this isn’t always achievable. Depending on circumstances, it may be better for me to stay without this in place than not to stay at all.

I’m a first-time couchsurfer and usually travel solo, though I intend to build references through events and hangouts. I take trust seriously and aim to be a guest who is responsible, genuinely engaged, and hopefully enjoyable to have around. If my pace and way of being sound compatible with yours, then I’d love to connect.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, England, Italy, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

Italy, United States