When she was young, Alexandra dreamed of becoming a teacher. As she got older, she thought she would become an author. (She had been devouring books for as long as she could remember.) By the time she reached university, she had joined the ranks of the campus newspaper, absorbing all she could about feature writing and news design. And after nearly five years in a professional newsroom, she found herself swept off to Beijing, China, to work as an English teacher and graphic designer.

So much of what Alexandra attributes her success to came through an openness to new opportunities. What started as a love of books evolved into an English literature degree. An interest in writing led Alexandra into her university’s newsroom, which then led to a publication design desk. Connections she made there led her to China, where she not only taught English but helped create an entire phonics-based reading library. Until recently, Alexandra has continued to employ everything she has learned so far to work as a freelance writer, designer, and editor.

Until 2024, Alexandra lived abroad with her husband and two adorable kittens. From China, they ventured to İzmir, Türkiye, where she balanced freelance work with a 200-hour yoga teacher training program. Indeed, she continued working for her China-based company, but has also connected with clients in book publishing, language course creation, and ESL education. Whenever she can, Alexandra also volunteers with nonprofits, using her design skills to help them promote their incredible work. At the end of 2024, she returned to the U.S., where she is now hoping to find more permanent employment with a company she hopes to thrive with.

Outside of her work, Alexandra spends her time pursuing creative interests in illustration. She is an avid hiker, but without mountains to summit, she’s happiest when on the yoga mat or a Pilates reformer. She is passionate about animal welfare, environmentalism, LGBTQ+ rights, and gender equality. Rarely is Alexandra without a book in her purse or a kitten on her lap. In fact, a cozy afternoon with kittens and a great book is Alexandra’s happy place.