I am a biology major at the University of North Texas working on a project for my technical writing course. This is a return to academics from a thirteen-year hiatus. Originally a pre-med student I am now focusing on earning my master's in psychology to become a counselor. At a fork in the road, I chose what I thought would be the road less traveled, but I was quite wrong. I was lost for a while, but I found direction. I have recovered from a hopeless state of mind and body. That path led me here, I would not trade that for the world. I live this journey one day at a time.

My father and grandfather alike, could fix anything you laid in front of them. Both enjoyed their work areas to be filled with projects 8 days a week. I naturally followed suit and was disassembling and fixing any toy I broke as soon as I figured out how to use a screwdriver. I would build models, carve out soapbox derby cars, and meticulously put together any Lego set I could get my hands on. Later in theater I would do set building and repair for theaters and would eventually move to upgrading the turbo charger and rebuilding the intake and exhaust on a 1989 Mazda MX-6 GT. More recently I have constructed warehouses full of industrial racking and worked in A/C repair. I attempt to repair whatever issues that come up at my house before calling in the professionals. I am a third-generation tinkerer.

Exposure to fine arts was something my mother instilled in me early. She brought me to see movies before I could walk. My love for live concerts runs deep. I'm surprised I have any hearing left. I have seen and performed in more plays and musicals than I have lived years on this earth. With long stints in, dance, theater and choir my greatest joy has been the decade I spent at the front man of a touring metal band. Though my choir teacher would have lost her mind know what I was doing with my voice. My love for being in live performances is something I will never lose. The expression and catharsis of the writing processes culminating into a live performance is exhilarating! A feeling I will never forget. Despite the ups and downs over the years with my former bandmates, our relationships run deep. They are such important parts of my story. I am so grateful for the family I found in them even when I was feeling alone

(In no particular order)

• Nonpoint
• Nine Inch Nails
• Mike Doughty
• Doomtree
• Brave Combo