How did you discover your passion for what you do?

I’ve always had an interest in maps and what can be found in locations I haven’t yet visited. However, I distinctly remember being in Santiago, Chile and learning about the Peruvians who move to the city for job opportunities. It was eye-opening to me to learn about the migration of people in that way. When I took my Geography 101 class in college, I knew that geography was something I wanted to pursue, and I immediately switched my major.

What words of wisdom or advice do you live by?

“Wear the Elsa dress and the Viking helmet. Be a strong princess.” The story behind this comes from a couple I met one afternoon at Disney World’s Hollywood Studios. We were sitting and chatting at the same table at a restaurant, and they told me about how Elsa is the favorite princess of their granddaughter with Down syndrome. She had dressed up as Elsa earlier in the year but insisted on wearing a Viking helmet rather than Elsa’s crown because she wanted to be a “strong princess.” It serves as a reminder to me that I am stronger than I think, and it is ok to push the boundaries of what the mold is known to be.

How do you make sure you stay connected with your professional network?

I have many friends throughout the industry with whom I share or receive new information or ask for help when I’m stuck on a new task.  Outside of that, I attend conferences and subscribe to industry news.