We love bragging about you. That's why we have an interview series where we feature one of our biggest fans each month. We want everyone to get a peek at the amazing work they're doing and be inspired, because they're seriously some of the coolest people we've ever met.
Today we're bragging about Chelsea (@corgi_burrito).
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a true Midwesterner. I was born in Wisconsin, grew up on a farm in Illinois on the Wisconsin border, I say "ope, let me sneak right past ya," and I love a good sharp cheddar. But I am also a queer nerd. I have always loved biology and during my undergrad at University of Illinois I learned about and fell in love with plant pathology, the study of plant diseases. I earned my Ph.D. in plant pathology from Iowa State University where I studied plant-parasitic nematodes! While there, I met my partner. After completing my degree, I got a job as a Commercial Ag Extension Educator with University of Illinois Extension and moved back to my home state. My partner joined me a few months later. Of course, I also have my eight-and-a-half-year-old tripawd corgi boy, Charles Avocado Van Gogh, that I love to pieces. We are a silly, weird, happy little family that enjoys hiking, cycling, and watching TV/movies, and crafting!
What is your hidden talent?
This isn't really something I'm talented at... but I am a great friend. I know that sounds a little bit pretentious, but I know that I'm a great friend. I don't have a TON of friends, because when I make friends I put a ton of effort into maintaining that friendship. It can be exhausting for me, but I place a lot of value on friendships and quality human connection.
What is the coolest (or weirdest) thing you have ever done?
Honestly, I think the coolest thing that I have ever done is to get my Ph.D. in Plant Pathology. Cool because I am a first-generation college student and I made it all the way to get my doctorate!
The song that's currently in your head?
Rhythm of the Night - Corona (I love 90s music haha)
The book you share with all your friends?
Braving the Wilderness - Brené Brown
What superlative would you give yourself?
Most likely to become a crazy corgi lady
What embroidery project are you most proud of?
I am really still quite new to embroidery. I picked it up during quarantine, so I don't have a ton of projects under my belt. But I think one of my favorite projects (I have to pick two) are the succulents from PopLush Embroidery and the woodland friends one I made for my new (first) little niece that was born in June!
