My Story

Photo by Chelsie Peckio

Chahta sia hoke! I am Choctaw.

I was born and raised in rural southeastern Oklahoma, in the heart of the Choctaw Nation. My mother always stressed the importance of our Native American heritage and has always been a crucial part of my life. 


"It was once said that my people, the Choctaw, are a people of miracles. Intentionally showing these miracles to the world through creative storytelling and strategic communication."


From a very early age, I knew that I had a the gift of creativity. It was when I started college that I realized that I needed to enter a field where creativity was encouraged and vital. At Eastern Oklahoma State College, I earned an associate degree in mass communication, which required me to exercise my creativity with writing, photography and graphic design. In deciding my next move, I knew I wanted to continue my education in public relations. So, I transferred to the University of Oklahoma's Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication. My mission is to devote my talents and skills to the advancement of the Choctaw people and Native Americans in general.  

Currently, I am a content contributor for The Odyssey Online where I create engaging articles and contribute photos. I worked previously as a clerk at City of McAlester Municipal Court, which taught me the importance of diplomatic communication and team work. 

I currently balance my life between Norman, Oklahoma, and my home near Haileyville, Oklahoma. In my spare time, I love to take pictures of all kinds of subjects, from people to the night sky, and exploring the state of Oklahoma. 

Skills

Fluent in French • Proficient in Spanish • Conversational in Danish • Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premier • Photo editing • Oral and written communication • Copy editing • Time management • Customer service • Database management