After graduating from LBHS, I attended the University of Florida (UF). There I received two Bachelors of Science (Operations Mgmt and Animal Science). From 1999-2007 I was employed w/ the USDA Agriculture Research Service where I conducted transcriptome surveys of various insect pests to discover potential gene targets for RNAi. Through these surveys I was also able to identify three novel viruses. While working at the USDA, I obtained a Masters of Science from UF in Entomology & Nematology with a focus in molecular biology and virology. In 2007 I moved to Raleigh, NC to obtain a second Masters in Genomic Science with a focus in viral gene function from North Carolina State University. I now reside in Lake Nona (Orlando, FL) and work as an instructor at the University of Phoenix and Valencia College. I have three wonderful children (Sky and Nilah - my cats and Magic - my horse) who I absolutely adore. I am an avid runner and swimmer and enjoy hiking, camping, reading, and working out.