I graduated from CSUF with a degree in biological science in 2011. The following year I received my secondary teaching credential from CSUF. I worked in education at NOVA Academy in Santa Ana, Santa Margarita Catholic High in Rancho Santa Margarita, and Pacific Academy in Irvine. 

I enjoy all the many areas of biology, but my favorite is ecology, the study of organisms and their environments. When I am not in the classroom teaching, you can usually find me exploring nature and helping out with conservation efforts in important ecological habitats such as Newport Back Bay or Bolsa Chica Reserve. 

Indeed, I am passionate about science, and have committed myself to be a life-long learner. I believe education is journey, one in which has no ending point, but rather celebrates success with day to day progress in learning. I also believe knowledge is to be passed on to others. We all have some level of knowledge that can be shared, so join me as we share and grow in our knowledge of the wonderful world of biology!

Biology is the study of living organisms, and that is exactly what we will be doing in this biology course. We will begin by studying biological systems starting at the cellular level. We will look at characteristics of the cell and the chemical reactions that take place in single-celled and multi-cellular organisms. Then we will look at how cells replicate, and in some cases attributing to the growth and/or repair of the organism. Our study of genetics will allow us to see how traits are passed from one organism to another, and how mutations can occur during reproduction. These mutations, if not fatal, can produce a totally new gene. We will learn about DNA and protein synthesis, including basics of DNA technology, such as genetic modification and gel electrophoresis. Ecology will have us studying ecosystems and how they are shaped by interactions among living organisms and their physical environment. We will explore how a population of organisms can change over time and how evolution has produced the various species on earth today. Finally, we will learn about how the human internal environment is regulated and controlled so that we can function in a constantly-changing external environment. Ready, set, GO!

As students of biology, I expect you to come prepared each day to learn. This means you:

• Be in class on time, in your seat and ready to learn.

• Have all required materials (pencil/pen, notebook, and textbook).

• Have a positive, respectful attitude towards me and your fellow classmates.

• Actively participate in individual and group activities/projects.

• Follow all classroom behavior guidelines outlined in the syllabus.

• Refrain from whining at ALL times!