Academics
Class of 2002; English major; Social Studies minor; Education Concentration
Current Residence
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Current Occupation
School Social Worker with the Van Buren Intermediate School District, working at Mattawan Middle School and High School
Favorite Memory in Softball
The entire experience. I loved the camaraderie between my teammates and the support that we showed each other on and off the field. Being on the softball team allowed me to make friends with students outside of my major and outside of my dorm. It was a way for me to expand my friendship circle in a meaningful way.
Competing at K
Being an older teammate and mentor to first-year players was an especially fun and rewarding experience. I have very fond memories of the first-year class when I was a junior and senior.
Other Campus Involvements
I was a member of the College Democrats.
Other Meaningful Experiences
Study abroad was life-changing and monumental. I participated in study abroad in Thailand which was in its infancy, I think the second year of the program. The methodology that we used for learning language was exciting and effective. I was able to pick up the language quickly. The program also immersed you in a variety of experiences, including homestays in several different settings and with different cultural groups in Thailand which allowed us to get to know the broad scope of people, religions, communities, and values in the country.
Extra Innings
I'm married to a wonderful and talented person and we have two hilarious kids that I'm thankful for every day. I'm so happy that I chose K for my undergraduate experience. It was a perfect fit for me. Some of the professors that impacted me in a positive way were Dr. Siu-Lan Tan, Dr. Karen Boatwright, Dr. Gail Griffin, and Dr. Amelia Katanski. Go Hornets!
Athletic Accomplishments
Started 118 out of 119 career games...15-for-17 on stolen base attempts, including 10-for-11 junior year...All-MIAA Honorable Mention (2002)...had a seven-game hitting streak (2001)...led team in runs scored (2000, 2002).