I have always been drawn to the many facets of Language, but my biggest interest has been in semantics, and in particular how meaning is conveyed (or fails to), and how meaning in our language can provide insights into human thought and perception. Later in my graduate career and now as a linguist working in industry, I've become particularly interested in how such insights can be harnassed to improve technology and our lives.

My biggest passion outside of language is rowing. Gliding across the water feels like flying (well, flying backwards...), and rowers are some of the most fun, interesting, and hard working people that I've ever had the chance to meet. My favorite local clubs are the East Bay Rowing Club on the Oakland Estuary, and the Lake Merritt Rowing Club. Although the senation of rowing on the water can't be beat, I do far more indoor rowing given its time efficiency; it doesn't require washing down a boat.

When I get the chance, I indulge in a couple of other hobbies. I have an interest in photography, driven by the same fascination with perspective that underlies my interest in Language. I particularly enjoy finding form and pattern in subjects, capturing people, and experimenting with the process of photograping. Too many of my photos can be found here and here. I will always have an interest in the language, culture, and food of the communities in which I have lived and done research: Italy and Georgia (the nation of the South Caucasus, not the state). Lastly, I enjoy skiing when I get the chance - it's the snow-based alternative to rowing for getting a chance to fly.