I grew up in the Lower Hudson Valley of New York and spent my summers outdoors (whether I was in the Adirondacks, at the pool or beach, at day camp playing in the lake or running around in the woods).  I have always loved being outside; I grew up talking to the plants and animals around me.  Both sides of my family have deep connections to the Earth: long-time dairy farmers on one side, and horticulturists on the other.  I didn’t know exactly what I wanted “to do” with my life; all I knew was that I wanted to help people and feel like I was making a difference in the world.

I went to art school to become a printmaker, and then got my Master’s in art education. At the end of my first year of teaching, I realized that this was not the way I wanted to make a difference! I still continue to make art for myself, and I am an avid cook and baker (especially French macarons!)  My art website is: http://www.pamelacshaw.com

I discovered Michael Tierra’s The Way of Herbs almost 10 years ago and self-treated several issues successfully, to my astonishment.  It came with a bookmark for East West, and every time I opened The Way of Herbs, that bookmark was always in view.  After four years of working as an executive/personal assistant and personal chef in Manhattan, plus repeat visits to Michael and Lesley’s blog (and the East West website), I decided it was time to take the leap and finally enroll!  Since my start at East West in September 2011, my life has been filled with a great new purpose.

I have yet to decide what I want to “do” with this education, but I know that I am in the right place. I know that I would like to heal as many people as are willing, to empower them to take charge of their own health, and to infuse them with enthusiasm and excitement.  Whether this takes form through teaching others, doing clinical work, or creating a product line, only time will tell.