Senior Instructional Technologist
2013
My career journey
Prior to my time at Northwestern I operated a web-design firm assisting small- medium-size local businesses designing web solutions, social media plans & services and pay-per-click ad marketing campaigns. Before that I worked as an audio-visual technician. Initially as a “roadie” for musical and comedy acts, and later as a resort/conference center technician in staging, lighting, audio, video and projection. [multi-day corporate conferences and family entertainment] At that same time I was designing and printing CD album covers and DVDs. These experiences and more informed my practice as a technologist in that they prepared me for working in small groups on design for digital projects, and media production for various sizes and various stages. In my time at NU I have completed a Masters in Communication at NU, an Instructional Design Certification through UW-Stout. See current bio for details.
My inspiration
Honestly I fell into it, but my experience in project management, web design/customer experience, and media production made me a perfect fit for the role. It came to me over time how similar web and experience design for commerce and education are so closely related. My inspiration for my prior roles and different careers were driven by my love for music as a musician and stage hand.
Where I’m from/Where I am at
I was born in Evanston, IL and raised in Highland Park, IL. I live in Evanston now as a resident, but moved around a bunch during college and other phases of life. (various Chicago locations, and Arizona locations Tucson, Scottsdale)
My interests outside of work
Photography. I enjoy portrait photography and carry a camera with me when I travel for outdoorsy stuff. I’m starting to learn about Real Estate photography and hope to practice it some soon. No finite plan though. So maybe never. 🙂
Rewards of my job
I’m always curious about the goings on in various industries and finding out what makes people tick and here I have exposure to a myriad of industries and personalities. The most rewarding thing about the job is when a faculty emails me out of the blue to share a course success story. Given it’s a thankless job it’s the closes I’ll get to recognition. It was similar in the A/V industry as well. I also enjoy working with all of the media production software and technology (graphic design, audio and video production). That’s what I trained for in college, and what I set out to do when I completed my undergrad degrees. I know my work won’t be nominated for Oscars or Grammys, but they’re something to show for my efforts and experience, and the closest I can get to keeping my skills fresh.