Laura Anderson         

What are your passions outside of work?

• I do ceramics – hand-thrown pottery on the wheel.  I would say spending time with friends & family is also a passion of mine.

 Tell us about your family.

• I grew up in Vegas, and my parents still live there. I love living in San Francisco now with my fiancé (we’re getting married in March). San Francisco is certainly a change from Vegas – no slot machines in the grocery stores!  I didn’t even realize that was a strange thing when I was growing up.

What are your inspirations?

• I love kids – one of my cousins had her first child three and a half years ago, and he uplifts me.  He’s my little inspiration.

 What is your favorite thing about the Museum?

• I love the laughter.  Everyone here is cheerful and welcoming, both staff and visitors.  Also, I love seeing the same faces, the same families and building relationships with them.  It’s a special thing.

 If you could be an animal, which one would you be?

• A giraffe, because I would like to see what it’s like to be tall – to see the world from a heightened perspective.

 What are your favorite films? Music?

• When I was growing up, Grease was my favorite movie.  Now I would say The Royal Tenenbaums, Shawshank Redemption, or my all-time favorite, The Goonies.  You know, I’m an old heart – I love Paul Simon and Crosby, Stills & Nash.  Oh, and Neil Diamond – that’s my Vegas side.

 What is your goal in life?

• I love being in education, and I’ve worked in museums for years (including 5 years at the Tech Museum of San Jose).  I originally thought I’d be a teacher, but I’m bad with discipline, so I really like more informal learning – seeing that smile when they understand, or when they try new things. 

 Is there something you look forward to learning?

• The guitar, definitely.  Mr. R’s been teaching me a few chords.  I’d love to be able to pick it up and not even think about where my fingers are going.

 Where would you like to travel?

• Switzerland, because I was only there for a day. It was so beautiful and everyone was nice there. 

What are your hobbies or quirks?

• I laugh a lot – probably when I shouldn’t be laughing.  I love to try new foods, and am frequently the sous chef for my fiancé, who’s a chef-in-training.  Last night we made Mongolian beef!

 What would you be in another life?

• A rock star (although I’d have to learn how to sing).  I’d be dressed in sequins like Neil Diamond.