"I gotta move while my future's bright and sunny..."

And so it begins.

I've never really been one to write my feelings- in journals, on Web sites, in letters. In fact, the most truthful writing I publish takes the form of emails that I never send, but sit in the draft box of my Gmail. I have always heard, however, that blogs can be quite cathartic, a way to express everything so the entire world can read it. And as I embark on this new journey called Teach For America, I feel like that is exactly what I will need. So I hope that this blog helps you understand my mission, my dreams, my adventures and sometimes, my failures.

I've been asked the million dollar question many times: "Why are you doing Teach For America?" After visiting DC a few weeks ago and stood staring at the graves of men and women who gave their life for our country in Arlington National Cemetery, I thought about my service to our country. While I am not in the armed services, I am part of AmeriCorps, my chance to put my ideals into action and establish change in our country. While I may not be serving overseas, I may be educating the future men and women who will. Or the next President. Or the next great American writer. It is this aspect of the job that lured me in. I am doing my part to give opportunities to students who may not necessarily receive them because of their hometown.

I know that there will be plenty of time to get my dream job, explore the seven wonders of the world, and so on but this is exactly what I want to be doing right now. I owe a million thanks to those that helped get me here- a few close friends, advisors I look up to, and family members. And so begins my journey to Charlotte, NC as an elementary school teacher. After spending a week in Charlotte for my Induction and five short weeks in Chicago for my rigorous Institute training, I will be on the front line in my classroom, hopefully hitting the ground running and not just hitting the ground.

I can't wait to share my stories, pictures, adventures and new life with you all.