| What is your most memorable childhood experience? | I have fond memories of my neighbors. They were a retired couple who treated my brother and me like grandchildren. We mowed their lawn and shoveled their sidewalks. They not only paid us but frequently rewarded us with treats and soda. My most fond memory of all is a series of events surrounding learning how to garden. They cleared a space in their garden for us to grow carrots (a personal favorite at the time). We did this for many years until I was in high school, and he passed away. |
| What immediate family member do you closely identify with and why? | While I have long been identified as physically looking like the maternal side of my family, I’m more like my father in temperament and how he relates to the world. He has strong opinions, but a humble disposition and loves to make people laugh at especially dumb jokes. He is curious to learn new things about the world. He also loves working with his hands and has long inspired me with his construction skills. |
| What character traits do you admire in an individual? | I have great admiration for people who are immensely kind with no expectation of return. Further, I appreciate people who can express gratitude or honor others without hesitation. I also adore those who are altruistic and not indifferent about the problems in the world and those who are passionate about helping others and resilient enough to make and implement a plan. |
| What is the funniest thing ever to happen to you? | When I was a kid, I used to spend many hours outside. On one adventure, I apparently discovered some worms and made friends with one and placed it in my pocket. When I got back in the house for dinner or a snack, I excitedly brought it out to show my mom. It wasn't moving and I concluded it was sleeping. My mom advised that I should put it back outside because that is where worms like to sleep. |
| If time and money were not an issue, where would you travel and why? | I would like to spend time traveling across Europe and Asia. |
| When and if you ever have children, what would you like to pass on to them? | I hope that they treat themselves and others with respect, raise up those in need, and leave the earth in a better or at least neutral condition. Even if they can't do it directly, I hope they can support those that do the direct work, advocate on behalf of marginalized populations, and be at least carbon neutral. |
