Nicknamed Julie from birth, I grew up in the small town of Emporia, Virginia, and I attended Brunswick Academy until I graduated in 2004 as valedictorian. In May 2007, I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in English cum laude from The College of William and Mary in Virginia with my certification in grades 6-12 English and Pre-Meritorious New Teacher distinction. Also, that month, I began pursuing my master's degree in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership (K-12) from The College. My career goals after teaching for a few years include finishing my master's degree and becoming a K-12 administrator.

In the time that I am not lesson planning, grading, or teaching, I can often been seen playing basketball, volleyball, or softball, all of which I have played since I was a child. During my undergraduate years, I was an intramural official and supervisor for W&M Rec Sports, where I picked up the additional sports of floor hockey, indoor/outdoor soccer, and flag football. Team sports have always interested me because I'm inherently a social person. I love talking with people, and one of my greatest strengths as a teacher is the positive rapport and respect I have with and for my students.

I am very enthusiastic about teaching and learning English as well as interacting and making a difference in the lives of my students. From the beginning of my clinical experience, I have consistently strived to become the best teacher that I can be in order to find the best ways to help my students. To whom much is given, much is expected, and I have been very blessed. My parents instilled the value of education in me, and, as a teacher, I will always strive to instill in my students these same values.