I am in my fifth year of pursuing a PhD in political science at Washington University in St. Louis. I passed my secondary field exam in comparative politics in April 2008, my dissertation prospectus defense in January 2007, and my primary field exam in American politics in May 2005. I also received an MA in May 2005. My BA (poli sci) and BS (public policy admin.) are from the University of Missouri-St. Louis (Jan. 2001).