Professional Development Seminar
What is it? This effort is designed to provide a foundation of support, information, and guidance to our colleagues at all stages of their careers, from graduate school to university administration. Women are asked to do more on every level in academic life, yet face continuous obstacles to career development and equal compensation, and these barriers are intensified for our colleagues of color. Each of our panels addresses key facets of academic and scholarly life for women. It is our hope that the end result is a long lasting network that encourages advancement of women in political science.
When does it meet? 3rd Friday of the month during the academic year at 2pm ET. (Schedule below!)
How can I attend? The seminar will be held virtually via zoom. To attend, you'll need to "register" (for free) to get the link to the zoom. We'll have a zoom registration set up for each seminar. Video viewing will be available upon request for 30 days after the seminar (with approval of panelists). Please make your video request in the registration form below or email womeninlegislativestudies (at) gmail.com.
Seminar Coordinators: Tracy Osborn (University of Iowa) and Rosalyn Cooperman (University of Mary Washington).
When does it meet? 3rd Friday of the month during the academic year at 2pm ET. (Schedule below!)
How can I attend? The seminar will be held virtually via zoom. To attend, you'll need to "register" (for free) to get the link to the zoom. We'll have a zoom registration set up for each seminar. Video viewing will be available upon request for 30 days after the seminar (with approval of panelists). Please make your video request in the registration form below or email womeninlegislativestudies (at) gmail.com.
Seminar Coordinators: Tracy Osborn (University of Iowa) and Rosalyn Cooperman (University of Mary Washington).
Academic Year 2023-2024:
April 19 Getting Your Research Groove Back On (After a Short or Long Break!)
Presenters: Jen Selin (Pennsylvania State University), Sara Angevine (Whitter College)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about how to get back into the groove of research when you've had to step away, whether it was for a short time or a longer period
Register here!
March 15 Balancing Teaching, Research, and Service at a Liberal Arts College
Presenters: Kaitlin Sidorsky (Ramapo College), Jennifer Garcia (Oberlin College)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about how to best navigate professional demands in a liberal arts college setting.
Register here!
February 16 Mentoring the Modern Grad Student
Presenters: Kathryn Pearson (University of Minnesota, Associate Professor), Sharece Thrower (Vanderbilt University, Associate Professor), Rachel Porter (University of Notre Dame, Assistant Professor), Emily Elia (Rice University, Graduate Student)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about how to best mentor graduate students today and insights about mentoring do's and don't's
Register here!
January 19 Prepping Your Promotion and Tenure File
Presenters: Heather Ondercin (Appalachian State University), Ivy A.M. Cargile (California State University Bakersfield).
Abstract: Getting ready for a promotion? Panelists will discuss their experiences and share advice on prepping your tenure file.
Register here!
December 15 Navigating Difficult Departments and Colleagues (and Not Losing Your Mind)
Abstract: Are you dealing with difficulties within your department, dysfunctional norms at your institution, or conflicts with colleagues? Navigating these relationships can be challenging in the academy, especially for women scholars. Join us for a discussion about how to best manage difficult interactions with your department.
Register here!
November 17 Publishing Roundtable with Journal Editors
Presenters: Tiffany Barnes (Legislative Studies Quarterly), Sophia Jordan Wallace (Political Research Quarterly), Tracy Osborn (State Politics & Policy Quarterly)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about publishing! We will have a roundtable of journal editors in the discipline to share their guidance and answer questions about the publishing process.
Register here!
September 15 Making the Case for Yourself: Pro-Tips for Negotiating Job Offers
Presenters: Malliga Och (Denison University), Katelyn Stauffer (University of Georgia)
Abstract: Current institution got you down and ready for a change? Out on the job market for the first time? Either way, we have you covered. Join Malliga Och, Denison University, and Katey Stauffer, University of Georgia, for a conversation about getting hired, changing institutions, and everything you wished you knew about negotiating job offers like a seasoned veteran.
Register here!
August 19 So, You Want to be a Fellow! Applying for APSA Congressional and Fulbright Fellowships
Presenters: Mary Layton Atkinson (University of North Carolina Charlotte), Karen Wachsmuth (University of Iowa)
Abstract: Fulbrights and APSA Congressional fellowships provide two amazing opportunities for professional and scholarly development. Join Mel Atkinson, UNCC, and Karen Wachsmuth, University of Iowa, as they share their fellowship experiences and ideas for submitting your own successful application.
Register here!
Academic Year 2022-2023:
May 19 Teaching in Difficult Political Climates
Presenters: Jaclyn Kettler (Boise State University) and Janine Parry (University of Arkansas)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Many U.S. state legislatures are developing policies that would restrict content taught in college classrooms, and these restrictions can be especially relevant for social science curricula. State policies to reform or eliminate the tenure process also raise new uncertainties for faculty. The current political climate in many states poses new difficulties for academia. Join us for a discussion and Q&A session about best teaching approaches in difficult political climates.
Register here!
April 21 Collaborating in Data Collection
Presenters: Paru Shah (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee) and Jen Selin (Administrative Conference of the United States)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Join us for an informative session about how to best develop and manage data collaboration efforts.
Register here!
March 17 Tenure Letter Writing
Presenters: Mirya Holman (Tulane University) and Christina Wolbrecht (University of Notre Dame)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Join us for an informative session all about the tenure letter writing process!
Register here!
February 17 Field Work and Interviewing
Presenters: Amanda Clayton (Vanderbilt University), Alison Craig (University of Texas at Austin), and Annelise Russell (University of Kentucky)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Conducting fieldwork and performing qualitative research can be unpredictable, and many scholars of legislative studies do not receive formal training in interviewing. In this seminar, panelists will share their experiences and advice on conducting fieldwork. Further, we will discuss best practices for talking to elites and conquering the challenges of the IRB.
Register here!
January 20 Working With Media
Presenters: Molly Reynolds (Brookings), Rosalyn Cooperman (Univeristy of Mary Washington), Rebecca J. Kreitzer (UNC Chapel Hill)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Have questions about best practices for fielding media requests or connecting with reporters? Join Molly Reynolds (as host/panelist), Rosalyn Cooperman (Professor and Chair, Department of Political Science & International Affairs, University of Mary Washington), and Rebecca J. Kreitzer (Associate Professor of Public Policy, Adjunct Associate Professor of Political Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) for a session on engaging with media on January 20.
Register here!
December 16 Navigating the Field as a Queer Scholar
Presenters: Hanna Brant (she/her) (SUNY Geneseo), Calla Hummel (xy/xyr) (University of Miami)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (she/her) (Brookings)
Abstract: Are you a queer scholar navigating grad school, the job market—or beyond? Are you a member of our community looking to become a more effective ally to queer students and colleagues? In this professional development session featuring Hanna Brant (she/her) of SUNY Geneseo and Calla Hummel (xy/xyr) of the University of Miami with moderator Molly Reynolds (she/her) of Brookings, we’ll discuss what it’s like to experience various stages and spaces in our discipline as a queer scholar and listen and learn about approaches to supporting queer colleagues across the career span.
Register Here!
November 18 Life Beyond R1 Institutions
Presenters: Brooke Allen (Seminole State College of Florida), Lauren Cohen Bell (Randolph-Macon College), Malliga Och (Idaho State University)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Many members of our community work at, are considering working at, or advise students pursuing opportunities at R2 universities, liberal arts colleges, and community colleges. Panelists will discuss what teaching, research, and service look like at these institutions, tips for prospective job applicants (and their advisors), and more.
Register Here!
August 19 How to Maximize Conferences
Presenters: Hye Young You (New York University), Angela X. Ocampo (The University of Texas at Austin), Leslie Schwindt-Bayer (Rice University)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings) and Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Scholars often receive conflicting information about conferences regarding how to network, how much to network, and when it is appropriate to ask other scholars to meet. In this seminar, panelists will discuss these issues along with putting together panels, deciding when a paper is ready for a conference, and general advice on presenting.
Register Here!
Past Events, Spring 2022:
May 20 Tips for Coauthoring
Presenters: Diana O'Brien (Rice University), Tracy Osborn (The University of Iowa), Sarah Childs (Royal Holloway, University of London)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Coauthoring is a core aspect of publishing. Although many of us want to reach out to other scholars with ideas for new projects, it can be intimidating to do so. In this seminar, the panelists will discuss how to build healthy coauthoring relationships and manage different work styles.
Register Here!
April 15 How to Cultivate a Public Presence
Presenters: Gisela Sin (The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign), Nadia Brown (Georgetown University), Meredith Conroy (California State University, San Bernardino)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Having a website with clear information about your work is of critical importance. However, websites are just one way to get your work out there. How do scholars build up a public presence? This panel will discuss how to promote your work, Women Also Know Stuff, and other similar topics.
Register Here!
March 18 Getting Involved in APSA Sections
Presenters: Leslie Schwindt-Bayer (Rice University), Eleanor Powell (University of Wisconsin-Madison), Jamil Scott (Georgetown University)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University), Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: This panel will focus on the advantages of joining and getting involved in APSA sections. Specifically, panelists will discuss why and how to decide to get involved. Further, they will discuss how being involved in multiple sections can help you network and get the most out of APSA.
Register Here!
February 18 How to Prepare for Summers and Sabbaticals
Presenters: Danielle Thomsen (University of California Irvine), Melinda Ritchie (The Ohio State University), Michelle Taylor-Robinson (Texas A&M University)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Scholars often find it daunting to prepare for and manage unstructured time. In this panel, speakers will discuss their strategies for doing so. This includes tips for planning work over summers, sabbaticals, and fellowships. Fellowships and sabbaticals in particular provide critical time to write and work on projects, but the process of navigating them can be confusing. As a result, speakers will also discuss how to apply for and maximize such positions.
Register Here!
January 21 Service
Presenters: Tracy Sulkin, University of Illinois and Michelle Taylor-Robinson, Texas A&M
Moderators: Michelle Taylor-Robinson, Texas A&M and Wendy Schiller, Brown University
Abstract: This seminar will explore balancing service to the profession, the community, your university and department. It will cover topics including (1) considering how service can also be part of building your reputation that will be evaluated in promotion files, (2) how to try to plan your service so that you don't get loaded up with not-so-great service opportunities, and either you can't say yes or are overburdened when really useful and fun service opportunities come to you, (3) "allowing yourself to say no without guilt" & moving into academic leadership.
Register Here!
Past Events, Fall 2021:
December 17 Career Diversity: Academic, Nonprofits, Government and Industry
Presenters: Michelle Allendoerfer (Director at APSA with responsibilities for the Career Diversity Standing Committee), Elizabeth Rybicki (Specialist on Congress and the Legislative Process, Government and Finance Division, Congressional Research Service), Tanya Schwartz (Current Executive Director at Pi Sigma Alpha and Former Director of Academic and Professional Development at APSA), and Renee Smith (Chief Research Officer, Gutcheck).
Moderators: Janet Box-Steffensmeier (Ohio State University) and Laura Moses (Ohio State University)
Abstract: Wondering what research careers are available outside of academia? Join our panel of political science PhDs as they share tips and their experiences in industry, nonprofits, and government and answer your questions.
Register Here!
Useful resources shared at this event:
November 19 How to Integrate Research on Political Minorities in Legislatures into Teaching
Presenters: Valerie Martinez-Ebers (University of North Texas), Tracy Osborn (University of Iowa), Beth Reingold (Emory University), Jatia Wrighten (Virginia Commonwealth University)
Moderator: Tracy Osborn, University of Iowa
Abstract: This panel will consider creative ways to bring content on political minorities into courses on legislatures. Questions to address include how to define a “political minority,” new and different ways to integrate this content into legislative politics classes, and how to address possible challenges students might face with this new content.
Register Here!
October 15 The American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship Program (TIME CHANGE--2:30 ET)
Presenters: Meghan McConaughey (APSA, Congressional Fellowship Program) and Cathy Wineinger (Western Washington University)
Moderator: Molly Reynolds (Brookings Institute)
Abstract: Each year, the APSA Congressional Fellowship Program provides early career scholars (those who have completed a PhD in the last fifteen years or who will defend a dissertation by November of the fellowship year) with an opportunity to experience legislative politics up close through a position in a congressional office. Join us to learn more about the program from Meghan McConaughey, Director of the Congressional Fellowship Program at APSA, and Cathy Wineinger, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Western Washington University and a 2019-2020 Congressional Fellow.
Register Here! *** PLEASE NOTE THAT THE OCT 15 SEMINAR WILL BE 2:30 - 3:30 ET.
September 17 Strategies and Success: Small Grants in Legislative Studies
Presenters: Tiffany White (Executive Director at the Dirksen Center) and Annelise Russell (University of Kentucky)
Moderator: Molly Reynolds (Brookings Institute)
Abstract: Have a great new research idea but need resources to support it? In this session, we’ll talk about small grant opportunities in legislative studies and successes (and failures!) in the grant application process. We’ll hear from Tiffany White of the Dirksen Center, which has a long-running small grants program, and from Annelise Russell of the University of Kentucky, who will talk about her grants experience, with plenty of time for Q&A.
Register Here!
August 20 Focusing on Mid-Career Faculty: Have a Strategy
Presenters: Cherie Maestas (Purdue University), Wendy Schiller (Brown University), Susan Welch (Pennsylvania State University)
Moderator: Janet Box-Steffensmeier (Ohio State University)
Abstract: Promotion to full, but so much more. How to decide when to say yes and when to say no to service. Where do you want to be in the next 2-3 years and 5-6 years?
Past Events, Spring 2021:
January 15 Women Balancing Teaching, Service and Research
Presenters: Nadia Brown (Purdue), Jennifer Piscopo (Occidental College), Kaitlyn Sidorsky (Coastal Carolina University), and Wendy Smooth (Ohio State University)
Moderators: Wendy Schiller (Brown) and Michelle Taylor-Robinson (Texas A & M)
Abstract: Women are so frequently asked to do more service and students tend to come to female profs more than male profs for assistance, and we say yes more often. This holds for assistant, associate, and full professors. One can get sucked into service work and then have a research agenda go off track--our focus is on how to make service choices and how to get research back on track again.
February 19 How to Publish: Hearing from Journal Editors
Panelists: Nadia Brown (Purdue), Kristin Kanthak (Pittsburgh), Valeria Sinclair-Chapman (Purdue), Tracy Sulkin (University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign), and Sophia Jordan Wallace (University of Washington)
Moderator: Nadia Brown (Purdue)
Abstract: This panel will include information on how/if to get feedback on drafts, advice on how to decide where to submit, and how to interpret/respond to reviews. This is a “Meet the Editors Panel” where each panelist will share general advice to authors and reviewers. There will be ample time for Q&A.
March 19 Covid Exacerbations on Women Faculty
Panelists: Mirya Holman (Tulane), Samara Klar (University of Arizona), Kathryn Pearson (University of Minnesota), and Wendy Schiller (Brown)
Moderator: Wendy Schiller (Brown)
Abstract: This panel will explore the ways that the COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for women faculty.
April 16 Social Media Engagement
Panelists: Julia Azari (Marquette), Sarah Binder (George Washington), Whitney Hua (University of Southern California), and Christina Wolbrecht (Notre Dame)
Moderator: Christina Wolbrecht (Notre Dame)
Abstract: How to best engage in social media and/or have a public-facing component to your scholarship.
May 21 Preparing for the Job Market
Presenters: Julia Payson (New York University), Sharece Thrower (Vanderbilt University), Tessa Provins (University of Pittsburgh)
Moderator: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Princeton/Rice University)
Abstract: This panel will discuss the best ways to prepare for the job market, including when to start working on materials, how to practice a job talk, and what people can do to prepare for the actual day of the visit.
April 19 Getting Your Research Groove Back On (After a Short or Long Break!)
Presenters: Jen Selin (Pennsylvania State University), Sara Angevine (Whitter College)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about how to get back into the groove of research when you've had to step away, whether it was for a short time or a longer period
Register here!
March 15 Balancing Teaching, Research, and Service at a Liberal Arts College
Presenters: Kaitlin Sidorsky (Ramapo College), Jennifer Garcia (Oberlin College)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about how to best navigate professional demands in a liberal arts college setting.
Register here!
February 16 Mentoring the Modern Grad Student
Presenters: Kathryn Pearson (University of Minnesota, Associate Professor), Sharece Thrower (Vanderbilt University, Associate Professor), Rachel Porter (University of Notre Dame, Assistant Professor), Emily Elia (Rice University, Graduate Student)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about how to best mentor graduate students today and insights about mentoring do's and don't's
Register here!
January 19 Prepping Your Promotion and Tenure File
Presenters: Heather Ondercin (Appalachian State University), Ivy A.M. Cargile (California State University Bakersfield).
Abstract: Getting ready for a promotion? Panelists will discuss their experiences and share advice on prepping your tenure file.
Register here!
December 15 Navigating Difficult Departments and Colleagues (and Not Losing Your Mind)
Abstract: Are you dealing with difficulties within your department, dysfunctional norms at your institution, or conflicts with colleagues? Navigating these relationships can be challenging in the academy, especially for women scholars. Join us for a discussion about how to best manage difficult interactions with your department.
Register here!
November 17 Publishing Roundtable with Journal Editors
Presenters: Tiffany Barnes (Legislative Studies Quarterly), Sophia Jordan Wallace (Political Research Quarterly), Tracy Osborn (State Politics & Policy Quarterly)
Abstract: Join us for a discussion about publishing! We will have a roundtable of journal editors in the discipline to share their guidance and answer questions about the publishing process.
Register here!
September 15 Making the Case for Yourself: Pro-Tips for Negotiating Job Offers
Presenters: Malliga Och (Denison University), Katelyn Stauffer (University of Georgia)
Abstract: Current institution got you down and ready for a change? Out on the job market for the first time? Either way, we have you covered. Join Malliga Och, Denison University, and Katey Stauffer, University of Georgia, for a conversation about getting hired, changing institutions, and everything you wished you knew about negotiating job offers like a seasoned veteran.
Register here!
August 19 So, You Want to be a Fellow! Applying for APSA Congressional and Fulbright Fellowships
Presenters: Mary Layton Atkinson (University of North Carolina Charlotte), Karen Wachsmuth (University of Iowa)
Abstract: Fulbrights and APSA Congressional fellowships provide two amazing opportunities for professional and scholarly development. Join Mel Atkinson, UNCC, and Karen Wachsmuth, University of Iowa, as they share their fellowship experiences and ideas for submitting your own successful application.
Register here!
Academic Year 2022-2023:
May 19 Teaching in Difficult Political Climates
Presenters: Jaclyn Kettler (Boise State University) and Janine Parry (University of Arkansas)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Many U.S. state legislatures are developing policies that would restrict content taught in college classrooms, and these restrictions can be especially relevant for social science curricula. State policies to reform or eliminate the tenure process also raise new uncertainties for faculty. The current political climate in many states poses new difficulties for academia. Join us for a discussion and Q&A session about best teaching approaches in difficult political climates.
Register here!
April 21 Collaborating in Data Collection
Presenters: Paru Shah (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee) and Jen Selin (Administrative Conference of the United States)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Join us for an informative session about how to best develop and manage data collaboration efforts.
Register here!
March 17 Tenure Letter Writing
Presenters: Mirya Holman (Tulane University) and Christina Wolbrecht (University of Notre Dame)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Join us for an informative session all about the tenure letter writing process!
Register here!
February 17 Field Work and Interviewing
Presenters: Amanda Clayton (Vanderbilt University), Alison Craig (University of Texas at Austin), and Annelise Russell (University of Kentucky)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Conducting fieldwork and performing qualitative research can be unpredictable, and many scholars of legislative studies do not receive formal training in interviewing. In this seminar, panelists will share their experiences and advice on conducting fieldwork. Further, we will discuss best practices for talking to elites and conquering the challenges of the IRB.
Register here!
January 20 Working With Media
Presenters: Molly Reynolds (Brookings), Rosalyn Cooperman (Univeristy of Mary Washington), Rebecca J. Kreitzer (UNC Chapel Hill)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Have questions about best practices for fielding media requests or connecting with reporters? Join Molly Reynolds (as host/panelist), Rosalyn Cooperman (Professor and Chair, Department of Political Science & International Affairs, University of Mary Washington), and Rebecca J. Kreitzer (Associate Professor of Public Policy, Adjunct Associate Professor of Political Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) for a session on engaging with media on January 20.
Register here!
December 16 Navigating the Field as a Queer Scholar
Presenters: Hanna Brant (she/her) (SUNY Geneseo), Calla Hummel (xy/xyr) (University of Miami)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (she/her) (Brookings)
Abstract: Are you a queer scholar navigating grad school, the job market—or beyond? Are you a member of our community looking to become a more effective ally to queer students and colleagues? In this professional development session featuring Hanna Brant (she/her) of SUNY Geneseo and Calla Hummel (xy/xyr) of the University of Miami with moderator Molly Reynolds (she/her) of Brookings, we’ll discuss what it’s like to experience various stages and spaces in our discipline as a queer scholar and listen and learn about approaches to supporting queer colleagues across the career span.
Register Here!
November 18 Life Beyond R1 Institutions
Presenters: Brooke Allen (Seminole State College of Florida), Lauren Cohen Bell (Randolph-Macon College), Malliga Och (Idaho State University)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Many members of our community work at, are considering working at, or advise students pursuing opportunities at R2 universities, liberal arts colleges, and community colleges. Panelists will discuss what teaching, research, and service look like at these institutions, tips for prospective job applicants (and their advisors), and more.
Register Here!
August 19 How to Maximize Conferences
Presenters: Hye Young You (New York University), Angela X. Ocampo (The University of Texas at Austin), Leslie Schwindt-Bayer (Rice University)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings) and Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University)
Abstract: Scholars often receive conflicting information about conferences regarding how to network, how much to network, and when it is appropriate to ask other scholars to meet. In this seminar, panelists will discuss these issues along with putting together panels, deciding when a paper is ready for a conference, and general advice on presenting.
Register Here!
Past Events, Spring 2022:
May 20 Tips for Coauthoring
Presenters: Diana O'Brien (Rice University), Tracy Osborn (The University of Iowa), Sarah Childs (Royal Holloway, University of London)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Coauthoring is a core aspect of publishing. Although many of us want to reach out to other scholars with ideas for new projects, it can be intimidating to do so. In this seminar, the panelists will discuss how to build healthy coauthoring relationships and manage different work styles.
Register Here!
April 15 How to Cultivate a Public Presence
Presenters: Gisela Sin (The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign), Nadia Brown (Georgetown University), Meredith Conroy (California State University, San Bernardino)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Having a website with clear information about your work is of critical importance. However, websites are just one way to get your work out there. How do scholars build up a public presence? This panel will discuss how to promote your work, Women Also Know Stuff, and other similar topics.
Register Here!
March 18 Getting Involved in APSA Sections
Presenters: Leslie Schwindt-Bayer (Rice University), Eleanor Powell (University of Wisconsin-Madison), Jamil Scott (Georgetown University)
Moderators: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Rice University), Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: This panel will focus on the advantages of joining and getting involved in APSA sections. Specifically, panelists will discuss why and how to decide to get involved. Further, they will discuss how being involved in multiple sections can help you network and get the most out of APSA.
Register Here!
February 18 How to Prepare for Summers and Sabbaticals
Presenters: Danielle Thomsen (University of California Irvine), Melinda Ritchie (The Ohio State University), Michelle Taylor-Robinson (Texas A&M University)
Moderators: Molly Reynolds (Brookings)
Abstract: Scholars often find it daunting to prepare for and manage unstructured time. In this panel, speakers will discuss their strategies for doing so. This includes tips for planning work over summers, sabbaticals, and fellowships. Fellowships and sabbaticals in particular provide critical time to write and work on projects, but the process of navigating them can be confusing. As a result, speakers will also discuss how to apply for and maximize such positions.
Register Here!
January 21 Service
Presenters: Tracy Sulkin, University of Illinois and Michelle Taylor-Robinson, Texas A&M
Moderators: Michelle Taylor-Robinson, Texas A&M and Wendy Schiller, Brown University
Abstract: This seminar will explore balancing service to the profession, the community, your university and department. It will cover topics including (1) considering how service can also be part of building your reputation that will be evaluated in promotion files, (2) how to try to plan your service so that you don't get loaded up with not-so-great service opportunities, and either you can't say yes or are overburdened when really useful and fun service opportunities come to you, (3) "allowing yourself to say no without guilt" & moving into academic leadership.
Register Here!
Past Events, Fall 2021:
December 17 Career Diversity: Academic, Nonprofits, Government and Industry
Presenters: Michelle Allendoerfer (Director at APSA with responsibilities for the Career Diversity Standing Committee), Elizabeth Rybicki (Specialist on Congress and the Legislative Process, Government and Finance Division, Congressional Research Service), Tanya Schwartz (Current Executive Director at Pi Sigma Alpha and Former Director of Academic and Professional Development at APSA), and Renee Smith (Chief Research Officer, Gutcheck).
Moderators: Janet Box-Steffensmeier (Ohio State University) and Laura Moses (Ohio State University)
Abstract: Wondering what research careers are available outside of academia? Join our panel of political science PhDs as they share tips and their experiences in industry, nonprofits, and government and answer your questions.
Register Here!
Useful resources shared at this event:
- https://www.erdosinstitute.org/
- https://www.apsanet.org/careers/alt-ac
- https://www.imaginephd.com/
- https://beyondprof.com/
November 19 How to Integrate Research on Political Minorities in Legislatures into Teaching
Presenters: Valerie Martinez-Ebers (University of North Texas), Tracy Osborn (University of Iowa), Beth Reingold (Emory University), Jatia Wrighten (Virginia Commonwealth University)
Moderator: Tracy Osborn, University of Iowa
Abstract: This panel will consider creative ways to bring content on political minorities into courses on legislatures. Questions to address include how to define a “political minority,” new and different ways to integrate this content into legislative politics classes, and how to address possible challenges students might face with this new content.
Register Here!
October 15 The American Political Science Association Congressional Fellowship Program (TIME CHANGE--2:30 ET)
Presenters: Meghan McConaughey (APSA, Congressional Fellowship Program) and Cathy Wineinger (Western Washington University)
Moderator: Molly Reynolds (Brookings Institute)
Abstract: Each year, the APSA Congressional Fellowship Program provides early career scholars (those who have completed a PhD in the last fifteen years or who will defend a dissertation by November of the fellowship year) with an opportunity to experience legislative politics up close through a position in a congressional office. Join us to learn more about the program from Meghan McConaughey, Director of the Congressional Fellowship Program at APSA, and Cathy Wineinger, Assistant Professor of Political Science at Western Washington University and a 2019-2020 Congressional Fellow.
Register Here! *** PLEASE NOTE THAT THE OCT 15 SEMINAR WILL BE 2:30 - 3:30 ET.
September 17 Strategies and Success: Small Grants in Legislative Studies
Presenters: Tiffany White (Executive Director at the Dirksen Center) and Annelise Russell (University of Kentucky)
Moderator: Molly Reynolds (Brookings Institute)
Abstract: Have a great new research idea but need resources to support it? In this session, we’ll talk about small grant opportunities in legislative studies and successes (and failures!) in the grant application process. We’ll hear from Tiffany White of the Dirksen Center, which has a long-running small grants program, and from Annelise Russell of the University of Kentucky, who will talk about her grants experience, with plenty of time for Q&A.
Register Here!
August 20 Focusing on Mid-Career Faculty: Have a Strategy
Presenters: Cherie Maestas (Purdue University), Wendy Schiller (Brown University), Susan Welch (Pennsylvania State University)
Moderator: Janet Box-Steffensmeier (Ohio State University)
Abstract: Promotion to full, but so much more. How to decide when to say yes and when to say no to service. Where do you want to be in the next 2-3 years and 5-6 years?
Past Events, Spring 2021:
January 15 Women Balancing Teaching, Service and Research
Presenters: Nadia Brown (Purdue), Jennifer Piscopo (Occidental College), Kaitlyn Sidorsky (Coastal Carolina University), and Wendy Smooth (Ohio State University)
Moderators: Wendy Schiller (Brown) and Michelle Taylor-Robinson (Texas A & M)
Abstract: Women are so frequently asked to do more service and students tend to come to female profs more than male profs for assistance, and we say yes more often. This holds for assistant, associate, and full professors. One can get sucked into service work and then have a research agenda go off track--our focus is on how to make service choices and how to get research back on track again.
February 19 How to Publish: Hearing from Journal Editors
Panelists: Nadia Brown (Purdue), Kristin Kanthak (Pittsburgh), Valeria Sinclair-Chapman (Purdue), Tracy Sulkin (University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign), and Sophia Jordan Wallace (University of Washington)
Moderator: Nadia Brown (Purdue)
Abstract: This panel will include information on how/if to get feedback on drafts, advice on how to decide where to submit, and how to interpret/respond to reviews. This is a “Meet the Editors Panel” where each panelist will share general advice to authors and reviewers. There will be ample time for Q&A.
March 19 Covid Exacerbations on Women Faculty
Panelists: Mirya Holman (Tulane), Samara Klar (University of Arizona), Kathryn Pearson (University of Minnesota), and Wendy Schiller (Brown)
Moderator: Wendy Schiller (Brown)
Abstract: This panel will explore the ways that the COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges for women faculty.
April 16 Social Media Engagement
Panelists: Julia Azari (Marquette), Sarah Binder (George Washington), Whitney Hua (University of Southern California), and Christina Wolbrecht (Notre Dame)
Moderator: Christina Wolbrecht (Notre Dame)
Abstract: How to best engage in social media and/or have a public-facing component to your scholarship.
May 21 Preparing for the Job Market
Presenters: Julia Payson (New York University), Sharece Thrower (Vanderbilt University), Tessa Provins (University of Pittsburgh)
Moderator: Jaclyn Kaslovsky (Princeton/Rice University)
Abstract: This panel will discuss the best ways to prepare for the job market, including when to start working on materials, how to practice a job talk, and what people can do to prepare for the actual day of the visit.
