After emigrating to the U.S. from Ukraine as an 11 year old, I earned a bachelor's degree in journalism at California State University Northridge. I contributed extensively to the school's daily newspaper and served as editor in chief during my final semester. Following graduation, I went on to work for a business newspaper and a number of mainstream and trade media outlets before venturing out as freelance journalist specializing in urban culture. More recently, I've transitioned to consulting and web content development. I am fluent in Russian. Some of my better attributes are integrity, a deadline-driven approach to work and, generally, an upbeat attitude.