I grew up in a sleepy town in southwest Pennsylvania determined not to be boring. That decision led me to study abroad in France as a senior in high school, and I've never been the same.

Generally, what I love about travel are the moments of unnerving insecurity followed (hopefully) by the satisfaction that comes with accomplishing the most mundane tasks, the excitement of learning and using a new language, and connecting with locals. To me, nothing beats the sensation of glimpsing a stunning vista that I couldn't even conjure in my imagination. I also love to visit convenience and grocery stores - I'm fascinated by junk food packaging abroad!

When I'm not traveling, I am working towards a joint Ph.D. in Art History and Latin American Studies. Because of this, last year, I had the great opportunity to live in Mexico City for my research. You can read more about my adventures in the D.F. here.

My ideal way to travel is actually not to move through, but rather, live in a place for an extended period of time. I'm a fastidious researcher by nature, and I always feel I need a lot of time to seriously get to know a place in a way I find satisfying. One of my favorite feelings when I arrive in my new neighborhood is knowing that, one day, I'll know the streets like the back of my hand. One of my favorite ways to explore a new place is to go for a run. As they say, the best way to get to know a place is to get lost.

I'm currently located in Washington, D.C. as a research fellow finishing up my degree. On the side, I like to obsessively photograph food on Instagram and blog about ways to stay healthy on a budget and on the road.