MaryLynn

Introduction to Public Speaking Instructor, Inspirer of Youth

What does Upward Bound mean to you? How has it changed you overall?
Upward Bound has been a fantastic experience so far. I've been really inspired by the students and their work ethic--the lecture class this year forces people to confront some of their deepest insecurities and fears, not to mention all they learn about research and structuring argument. I don't think its changed me, but it has reinforced the transformative power public speaking can have on individuals.
 
What influenced/inspired you to become a teacher?
My own experiences in college--my successes AND struggles--along with a desire to share those experiences with others. Working with students of argumentation and public discourse is always a very interactive process; the teacher learns as much from the students as they do from her!

What do you enjoy doing during your free time?
I really like cooking--when I became a vegetarian I was a sophomore in high school, and my parents basically said, "Ok kid, have fun scavenging". So I taught myself how to cook, and it will be a life-long process of learning and perfecting. I also like watching baseball. It really doesn't matter how badly the Mariners are doing--a bad game at SafeCO is still better than most days at work. ;-)

What is your favorite color? Why?
I like greens and blues, because that's what I think of when I think of Seattle's "colors". Green trees and blue water.

What is one weird fact about you that we don't know right off the bat?
In the summer, I make my own ice cream.