Where did you grow up, and what first got you interested in studying theology?
I grew up in Fresno, California, attending Hope Lutheran Church. Church has always been an important part of my life as my grandfather was a Lutheran pastor. I became interested in studying theology during confirmation camp at Mount Cross Ministries, the same Lutheran camp I work and live at today.

What did you study as an undergraduate?
I graduated from Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington. At PLU, I majored in Religion and minored in Hispanic Studies and Nonprofit Leadership.

What led you to pursuing theological education here at Luther Seminary?
While many inspiring people and amazing experiences have gotten me to where I am today, including my husband, uncle, and many friends, including Sara Gorman ’20 M.Div. I study at Luther Seminary because I believe it has the best distributed learning program.

What degree program are you in at Luther Seminary, and what are you hoping to do with your seminary education?
I am a first-year M.Div. student. I am interested in parish ministry and particularly interested in children and family ministry, as well as hospice and hospital chaplaincy.

What is the best part of studying as a distributed learner, and what do you do when you’re not studying?
I enjoy my synchronous Zoom classes the most, and I love getting to know other student’s call stories as it gives me inspiration and hope. When I am not studying, I work in the office at Mount Cross Ministries and pet sit using the Rover app in my neighborhood. In my free time, I love to hike, do yoga, play with my cats, and try new recipes.

What’s your favorite book or movie?
I recently got into audiobooks and my favorite genre is historical fiction. My favorite recent book is ‘The Women’ by Kristin Hannah. My favorite book of all time is ‘Have a Little Faith,’ and I enjoy all of Mitch Albom’s work.