Amanda was born and raised, and currently lives in San Diego, California, where she teaches in the Encinitas Union School District. Amanda earned an Elementary Education degree from Sonoma State University. A summer semester abroad in Paris and backpacking through Europe sparked a passionate and lasting love affair with language, culture, and travel.
After graduating college, Amanda joined the Peace Corps and spent over two years in Cote d'Ivoire and Madagascar. She assisted a variety of education projects, including HIV/AIDS education, health, women's education, and adult literacy. She also taught English to Middle and High School students.
Her time as a Peace Corps volunteer deepened her desire for travel while also convincing her that she wants to play a different part from that of tourist when she travels. This goal of participating in and contributing to the communities she visits has characterized her travels ever since.
Amanda found VISIONS to be a perfect fit as a staffer in Guadeloupe her first season and in Dominica last season. With a trip up to our Alaska program site in early April under her belt, she is thrilled to be leading the next group of VISIONS participants this summer in Alaska. Amanda loves to be active and outdoors, especially with her best friend and dog, Rischa. She also loves to dance, sing, and dive into any new adventure that comes her way.