This is me

I have always lived in the world of make-believe. If I wasn't immersed in a book as a child, I was creating stories for my dolls or drawing imaginary ladies in beautiful dresses. When I finally discovered theatre in high school, I learned that one could actually be inside the "make-believe" and that the images in my head could be recreated in real life.

In 2018, I left the comfort and safety of my small-town life where, for six years, I poured my soul into a little high school theatre program and encouraged it to grow into a bustling center of creativity with multiple sections and two shows each year. Yet, I was restless and lonely. So, I escaped in my own dramatic way: I moved to China.

I've always lived in

the world of

make-believe.

Finding a Purpose

Living overseas forced me to reevaluate everything. The dramatic difference in lifestyle, people and culture provided a fresh perspective on wants and means. I suddenly realized how vital it was to know where I was going next and why.

I really thought teaching high school was the answer. I enjoyed teaching and I am good at it; however, I was not teaching what fuels my passion.

While contemplating my next move, I came across a notice for a position as a Costume Shop Supervisor at a small university. As I read the job description, I thought, "I really want that job." I am largely self-taught, and I have decades of sewing experience and problem-solving behind me. Give me a project and I will make it happen. I have built multiple pieces for my own historical reenacting events and have been involved with nearly 50 theatre productions, fourteen of which were as an all-in-one director/teacher where I had to coordinate all the costumes for every cast, as well as handle the other aspects of a production. I’m excited to take the next step to develop the tools to strengthen my skills and fill in the missing pieces.

I think I will always find a way to teach. I honestly enjoy it and I am thrilled to have realized the subject that excites me. I want to teach people to work with their hands again. The world needs more leaders and craftspeople to show the value of creating something from parts. I want to improve and practice my craft of choice and then find a way to pass that on.