Who I am - words that describe me:
I'm outgoing. I love to meet new people.

My personal challenges:
Over the years I have added more and more physical activity and exercise to my lifestyle. I work out at least four times a week, and in the last three years, I have participated in a 350-mile bike ride from Raleigh, NC to Washington DC.

My career challenges:
I am currently in a new position that I have worked a long time to get to. Getting here is a result of a lot of work and many challenges. The work I do now is in an area in which I had no previous experience. It has been a learning experience for me all the way.

My career:
My career is in public affairs. I am now, after much work, a public affairs officer. I work in an area that I had little or no knowledge of when I was given this assignment. I write and edit press releases. A good portion of my day is spent dealing either with the public or the media answering questions. I act as a liaison between the media and my management.

Likes/Dislikes about career:
I love my job. NASA is an exciting agency. There is always something exciting happening.

Influences:
The most influential people in my life have to be my parents. I was always encouraged to do my best and not to be afraid of a challenge. They encouraged me to be whatever I wanted to be.

Future goals:
One goal I have is to be in even better physical condition in my 50's than I am in my 40's. My health is very important to me, and I believe that by continuing with an exercise program I can maintain good physical and mental health.

My thoughts about space exploration:
Working at NASA has increased my interest and awareness of space exploration. The more I learn of the benefits we have gained from space exploration, the more interested I become.