Hobbies and Interests

• Education: I'm really passionate about education, and not just in the classroom. I'm fascinated by how people learn and how to use that information to teach more effectively. I also really believe in the power of education to make a positive difference in the world.
• Sports: I am a big football and hockey fan, but I like all sports in general. My family is from Pittsburgh originally, so I am a huge Steelers and Penguins fan. Obviously I am a fan of my Alma Mater, Penn State. I'm looking forward to living in hockey-rabid Canada for a few years. I'll root for the Canadiens (unless they play the Penguins, of course).
• Outdoors: I hike, camp, and backpack. Recently I've been getting more into rock climbing, and I want to try ice climbing and kayaking. I was in Boy Scouts for many years so I have done a lot of other activities in the past. I also like to fish and hunt, though I don't do as much of either as I'd like. I just like doing being outside, even when doing yard work (though I don't have a yard yet).
• Running: I used to hate running, until I actually tried it. Now I love it, and if the weather is nice (I still hate running in the cold) there is a good chance you'll find me out gallivanting around Montreal. My personal distance record is 13.1 miles (half-marathon distance, though I wasn't racing), and I've averaged a 7:30 minute mile over four miles. I plan on trying a half-marathon race and a Tough Mudder in the near future, because that's my idea of fun.
• Weightlifting and Fitness: I try to keep myself in good shape by working out regularly and eating well. I'm not fanatical about it by any means, though. The whole point of staying in good health is so that you can enjoy life, so if it becomes a burden, you're probably not doing it right. All things in moderation, including moderation.
• Music: I've always liked modern rock and alternative, but I really got into blue grass, country blues, and some folk when I was living in central Virginia. I'd like to learn how to play the banjo, fiddle, and harmonica. I've sung in several choirs throughout high school and college.
• Current Events: Sort of a catchall for politics, economics, social issues, etc. I try to take an active interest in what is going on around me and I am really trying to learn more about government, economics, law, history, philosophy, etc. I like to think I have fairly diverse points of view, but if you forced me to sum them up in one sentence it would be "Let me do it myself." I'm excited to experience something different while living in Canada.
• Beer: I like to drink it (in moderation of course), and I like to brew it. Maybe someday I'll open a microbrewery!
• Others: Recently I have been getting more into photography. I enjoy cooking and have gotten pretty decent at it over the years. And of course, as an astronomer, I am interested in any and all science and technology.