by 
Like many of us in this profession, I sort of just landed in Career Services. I graduated from the University of Texas-Pan American in 2001 and left my small town life for the bright lights of Austin, Texas. My goal was to be an attorney, fighting the good fight. But after a few years of working at the Texas Legislature, my dreams of pursuing a career in law vanished. In 2003, I decided to pursue a culinary education. And while it was probably one of most fun times of my life, I soon realized cooking was not a financially sustainable career. I soon found myself back in the political limelight, but on the campaign side. If you have never worked within the political field, know this: it burns you out rather quickly. It was in 2006 that a friend suggested that as I had so many transferable skills, I should apply for an Internship Coordinator position at my alma mater. Not really understanding what I was getting into, I applied and got the job. Little did I know, it was my start down the Yellow Brick Road.
Fast forward 10 years later – I am now at St. Edward’s University in Austin, TX, attained my master’s in College Student Development, have transitioned from Internship Coordinator to Manager of Communications and Online Programs, and am past President for the Texas Cooperative Education and Internship Association (TxCEIA). It was when I concluded my term as Past President that I decided to become involved with SoACE. It started off with volunteering to help with social media at the 2014 conference in New Orleans and soon, I was the Chair for the Technology Knowledge Group until 2017. As I continue down the path of digital media, I wish I had picked up more tricks and knowledge in video production and graphic design. I’m a novice at best, but wish I had more time to truly develop the trait.
My favorite quote:
“Alice laughed: “There’s no use trying,” she said; “one can’t believe impossible things.”
“I daresay you haven’t had much practice,” said the Queen. “When I was younger, I always did it for half an hour a day. Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.”
– Alice in Wonderland
A Unique Fact About Me:
I have an Associates of Art in the Culinary Arts. I’ve worked in kitchens as a line cook and sous chef. In 2005, I worked in Steamboat Springs, CO and would have continued traveling the globe as many friends asked me to join their kitchens but due to a family illness, was unable to pursue that career path.
Hobbies:
I love horror movies. If you have a question about horror movies, chances are I know the answer. I love movies in general but horror is my favorite genre. I also love to read – mostly fiction, I enjoy whatever takes me away from reality.
