Q & A with Professor Ellen Seljan

August 18, 2011

The following Q & A is part of a series created by the college dean’s office to introduce new faculty. Get to know Assistant Professor of Political Science Ellen Seljan, who joins the faculty this fall, in the interview below.

Education:

Ph.D. 2010 University of California, San Diego; B.A. 2004, summa cum laude, Drew University 

Research & Teaching Interests:

Politics of taxing and spending 

What most excites you about joining the LC community?

I’m very excited to interact with students and colleagues who share my love of the liberal arts. I’m looking forward to small classes, thoughtful discussions, and the chance to watch students develop intellectually over their four years at Lewis & Clark. I’m also thrilled to be returning to my home state of Oregon! 

What kind of hobbies or special activities do you enjoy outside of work?

I love spending some of my free time in the kitchen. I particularly enjoy cooking Asian-inspired meals and any baking project that combines the ingredients chocolate and peanut butter! I also play coed soccer and avidly follow the Portland Trailblazers. Now that I live in Portland, it will be great to see some games in person! 

What were your childhood goals/aspirations?

When I was little, I mostly wanted to become a lawyer, like my father. But I also loved picking blueberries in the summer, so I thought it would be fun have to a blueberry farm on the side. 

What are you listening to in your car right now?

I’ve been on a lot of long road trips lately and have stocked my iPod with books on tape and NPR podcasts. My favorite podcasts include Planet Money, Radiolab, and a San Diego-based show called A Way with Words. 

What was your favorite childhood story?

The Pushcart War