Growing up in Oregon City, which is just outside the city of Portland, I was very sheltered and felt very safe. Oregon City is a town with not much diversity and the crime rate is very low. I have one older brother, Josh and an older sister, Dara. Both of my siblings are married and have two children of their own. Being the baby in the family, I was treated just as that, the baby. I was never able to get a word in and not have my own opinions.

I was involved in many different groups while attending Oregon City High School. While being very active in athletics, I was also the Link Crew Commissioner for my school and also a Natural Helper. I was a member of DECA and very involved in the Student Store selling school apperal, food and drinks to the student body.

I realized that I wanted to become a high school social studies during my Senior year of high school. During my early years in school, it became apparent to me that teachers play a very important role in teenagers lives and I wanted to be that good influence in their lives.