About Me

I am a visiting assistant professor with Purdue Political Science. I study International Relations and Comparative Politics. I am passionate about teaching and supporting student development. My research focus is on International Institutions, International Political Economy, and East Asian politics.

I grew up in Montana, where I enjoyed horseback riding, floating the Yellowstone and Big Horn rivers, and fly fishing. I served four years in the Marine Corps. I enjoy reading non-fiction(history/culture), and fiction(fantasy/sci-fi). I’m a sports fan, mainly football (life long Raiders fan) and hockey (Go Knights!!). I enjoy all things Star Wars. I also enjoy gaming, travel, and when I can I still love fly fishing and horseback riding.

After the Marines I attended Shasta College before transferring to UCLA where I earned a B.A. in Political Science. I continued my academic career at Iowa State, earning a Master’s degree before spending two years at University of Iowa and then earning my PhD from University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

• Education

  • University of Nevada, Las Vegas 2020-2024 - PhD in Political Science (IR/CP)

    • Institutional Design of Intergovernmental Organizations: Cooperation, Vitality, and Evolution

  • University of Iowa 2018-2020

  • Iowa State University 2016-2018 -- M.A. in Political Science (Global Politics Concentration)

    • Thesis Topic: “The Great Game's New Player: China's Belt and Road Strategy for Central Asia”

  • University of California, Los Angeles 2007-2010 - B.A in Political Science (IR Concentration), Minor in Asian Humanities

  • Shasta College 2005-2007