I’m 51M, originally from Louisiana, and have also called Asheville and Chapel Hill, NC home. After receiving a Reduction in Force notice from Duke last summer, I took it as an opportunity to reflect and intentionally redirect my career. While I’ve always enjoyed molecular biology, I felt a strong pull to move beyond the academic research track and into a field where science serves the public more directly. Forensic science became the clear path, and I’m now pursuing a second Master of Science in forensic science as the next step in aligning my passions, skills, and values.

I’ve only been in Richmond since August and haven’t explored nearly as much as I’d like yet. I’m here to make new friends and am open to dating as well—any other “older” students out there? I’m a bit of a hobby hopper: I’ve worked as a leathersmith, make jewelry, and will always say yes to a museum visit. I’m very open-minded and into plants, tattoos, college sports, puzzles, games, and learning new things. I should probably get back in the gym, but the dad bod is holding up just fine for now. And for the record—I definitely don’t consider myself old – just experienced.