Current job or job title: Interior Designer

Employer: PWArchitects, Inc.

Hometown: I was born in Wichita, KS but consider Columbia my hometown after living here most of my life.

First job: Receptionist at Dave Griggs’ Flooring America

College/degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Kansas State University, CIDA Accredited

What led you to your career? I always wanted a job that would allow me to be creative, but was practical as well. I also knew I wanted a career that would help people in some way. I attended Rock Bridge High School where I was able to take Interior Design elective courses and I got a taste of everything that goes in to design to make a space both functional and aesthetically pleasing for people to live and work in. This seemed like the perfect vessel for my desire to help people, express my creativity, and have a practical career path so off to college I went and the rest is history.

Best part of your job: Seeing a space come to life after all the time and hard work everyone puts in. You have been looking at this design on paper/on a computer screen for months but getting to stand in a space you had a hand in creating is always incredible. Also, seeing clients get excited when their space is coming together in person after they’ve been visualizing and planning for so long.

Two or three words that friends and acquaintances would use to describe you: Empathetic, reliable, witty

What are you most excited about? Seeing where life takes me!

Family/children/furry children:  I have two cats, Meeko and Percy. If you get that name reference you must be a fellow 90s kid or Disney fan.

Favorite place you’ve visited: My all-time favorite isKauai, Hawaii – the beauty of nature there is something to truly behold. Although, this time of year I always think back fondly on a December 2019 trip to various Weihnachtsmarkts (Christmas Markets) in Germany – it was a very unique and festive experience.

Best piece of advice someone has given you: You can’t pour from an empty cup – don’t be afraid to put yourself first and say no when you are overwhelmed. You can’t help others if you are not taking care of yourself first.

Goal or goals for 2021: Prioritize health and wellness and stay sane in what looks to be another year of the “new normal” with Covid in the world.