Alexa Stanard is a Ferndale, MI, based freelance writer. She writes regularly for Hour Detroit, The Detroit News, Vital and other publications. Her previous professional experience includes working as a writer in the Michigan House of Representatives and as a journalist for The Associated Press in Buenos Aires. She also spent several years working as a medical assistant in women's health clinics, and now writes frequently on health issues. She is also a member of the newly created Oakland County Women's Commission. Stanard holds a bachelor's degree in history and women's studies from the University of Michigan and a master's degree in journalism from Northwestern University.