Q: What's one thing about your work that might surprise people or that people might not know much about?

A: GIS is a pretty vast subject, but I think one of the most surprising things to me when I was studying it was that there's so many sources of free data related to maps out there. GIS professionals are great at making sure as much data is accessible as possible so we can all get a better understanding of the world around us.

Q: What's the most meaningful or satisfying aspect of your work?

A: I (and I think most people) love to look at a map and see places I know and love and determine what data the map is trying to convey. Getting to create data and visuals that help people do that is really satisfying and a great way to connect with other people.

Q: What's your favorite thing about the School of Kinesiology and why?

A: This will be my first time in the School of Kinesiology, but I have many friends and family who are physical therapists. Getting to play a role in accessibility and how the body interacts with the world around us is really exciting to me!


Q: Which states and/or countries have you lived in? Which was your favorite, and why?

A: I've only ever lived in Michigan and Illinois. I loved living in Chicago — the public transit system was inspiring and something I hope we have here in Ann Arbor/Detroit one day.


Q: If you could go on vacation anywhere, where would it be and why?

A: I recently went on my first white water rafting trip, and I'm now convinced I need to raft the Grand Canyon.