I decided that I wanted to be nurse when I was in high school. I loved learning in my science classes and getting to know people while working at a local restaurant, so it seemed like the perfect fit for me. I started my career as a bedside nurse in the hospital. Throughout my time as a nurse, my passion for learning how things work and the joy I experience from working with people continued to grow. With this experience, I pursued an advanced degree in order to play a more direct role in preventing chronic disease and improving overall wellness for my patients. As an adult-gerontology nurse practitioner, I now enjoy getting to know my patients over a longer period of time and helping them reach their health goals so they can live full, happy lives. My philosophy of care is to celebrate small victories and approach patients with an open ear and an open mind. In my free time, I like to read, garden, practice yoga, and spend time with my husband, Nick, and dogs, Rey and Olive.