My work has taken me across borders, cultures, and complex systems—but at its core, it has always been about people. Listening deeply. Advocating with intention. Showing up in moments that matter most.

Along the way, I’ve witnessed both the challenges and resilience that shape the human experience—stories of displacement, identity, survival, and strength. Those experiences continue to inform not only my work, but how I move through the world.

This space was created for those who believe that visibility matters, that connection is powerful, and that living fully is its own form of advocacy. Through travel, reflection, and shared experience, my hope is to foster understanding, challenge isolation, and contribute—however possible—to a more compassionate and connected world.

That work didn’t happen in theory—it was built over years of hands-on experience across mental health systems, immigration services, and international humanitarian efforts.

Helpline Information & Resource Referral Specialist
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) | 2022–2023

• Supported individuals affected by serious mental health conditions
• Connected callers to nationwide mental health resources
• Built rapport and provided guidance during vulnerable moments

Chief, Citizenship Branch
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) | 2014–2020

• Led and supervised a team of adjudications officers
• Oversaw citizenship and naturalization processes domestically and internationally
• Advised government offices and contributed to system improvements
• Coordinated military naturalization efforts and interagency collaboration

Overseas Adjudications Officer
USCIS – Moscow, Russia | 2013–2014

• Managed refugee application processes across multiple countries
• Conducted complex case investigations
• Collaborated with international agencies including DOS and UNHCR

Adjudications Officer
USCIS – Washington, DC | 2009–2013

• Led national modernization initiatives for case management systems
• Served as subject matter expert on medical disability naturalization processes
• Facilitated training and system-wide improvements

Refugee Officer
USCIS – International Assignments | 2007–2009

• Adjudicated refugee cases across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia
• Worked closely with international organizations on resettlement efforts

Presidential Management Fellow (PMF)
USCIS | 2005–2007

• Improved adjudication systems and interagency coordination
• Contributed to refugee program operations and policy development

English Teacher & Librarian
U.S. Peace Corps – Eritrea | 1996–1998

• Taught English to over 50 middle school students
• Built a school library in partnership with local and international organizations

Education & Training

• Master of Social Work (MSW) – University of Maryland
  Specialization: Social Action & Community Development
• Bachelor of Science in History (Minor in Psychology) – Western Oregon State College
• Certificates in Leadership, Supervision, and Project Management

Volunteer & Advocacy Work

My commitment to service extends beyond my professional roles. I have contributed to organizations focused on mental health, crisis response, and community support, including:

• Mental Health Association
• American Red Cross (Disaster Action Team Leader)
• International Rescue Committee
• DC Rape Crisis Center (Hotline Counselor & Hospital Advocate)
• Whitman-Walker Health (HIV/AIDS support)
• Hospice Caring, Inc.
• International Social Services (Graduate Intern & publication contributor)

The Mission Behind the Work

Wandering Social Worker exists to bridge lived experience with professional insight.

Travel, for me, is not just movement—it is engagement. It’s about listening, witnessing, and sharing stories that might otherwise go unseen. Each experience reflects a commitment to resilience, connection, and amplifying voices across communities.

By sharing openly, I aim to challenge isolation, foster understanding, and contribute—however possible—to a more compassionate and connected world.