What is your area of study and graduation year?
PhD in Business Administration, Management focus, Spring 2020

Are you from Lexington? If not, where?
I am from Lexington, but spent most of my childhood in Houston, Texas.

What have you loved most about your time at Gatton so far?
I have loved many things during my time at Gatton, but I love the global reach of my department the most. I have witnessed and been a part of some amazing research with some amazing people. Saying that you are from the University of Kentucky means something, and it is thanks to the leadership of Dan Brass, Steve Borgatti, and our administrators.

How do you manage a healthy work/life balance?
Working out, spa days, and therapy are important, but my work/life balance has really been through my faith in Jesus Christ. My faith directs my path and reminds me that my work is not about me but about the many people I will be able to help.

What do you love most about your job?
I love the formidable integrity in our work through teaching, researching, and servicing.

Do you have any career advice for current students / recent graduates?

Assume nothing.
Ask questions.
Negotiate your position.
Get it in writing.
Focus on your soft skills.
Read "The Defining Decade" by Dr. Meg Jay.
Learn something new every day.

What is your memorable travel adventure?
Traveling to Tokyo and Ōita with fellow Gatton grad students through the KAKEHASHI Project. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan sponsored students from University of Kentucky, Ohio State University, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, and Rutgers University to learn about Japanese culture. In a week we met with Sinzo Abe's senior advisors, toured manufacturing facilities, stayed overnight with Japanese families, and ate rice grown from their backyards. It was an unforgettable experience that I am thankful for.

Favorite quote or motto?
“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.” — Eleanor Roosevelt