I followed the weather on a daily basis, especially when I was a teenager, and was determined to become a meteorologist. I chose the University of Oklahoma to obtain my college education because of its reputation in meteorology, particularly in the study of severe local storms. There was also the consideration that it had those legendary storm chase teams.

Tornado chasing with the other "storm freaks" was a thrill. It was great to be around others who shared my passion for severe weather. The anticipation of the upcoming development of severe thunderstorms, preparing for the chase, and the long drives around the Oklahoma and Texas prairies were things I will never forget. Of course, feeling the adrenaline rush when you see your first tornado also makes an indelible impression! As with any endeavor like this, you have your good days and your bad days, but you always seem to remember the good ones the best.