2004
I moved to Sydney, Australia in 2006 and began working as a copywriter and content creator for print publications and online media channels while I developed my personal creative writing projects. In 2012, my first middle-grade novel was published by the University of Queensland Press which went on to become a three book series that has been featured in the national curriculum and state reading lists. Today, I am a digital strategist, working on websites for a number of digital agencies as I anticipate the release of my debut young adult novel in September 2016.
The rigor of the Duke University curriculum and the high caliber of the staff and faculty prepared me well for my professional career. I was encouraged to pursue my literary and artistic interests but also developed solid work habits, professionalism and the right strategic mindset that would serve me well in any professional setting. One of the most poignant life defining moments was a one on one meeting with the late Professor Reynolds Price; he knew straightaway I didn't want to be a banker even though I was an economics major at the time. I think being able to recognize the truth of yourself and to follow that through in the most fervent and passionate way possible while remaining grounded and realistic of practical norms is the best education I took away from my university years, and I am grateful for it!
