I grew up in Moscow, USSR. After graduating from high school, I spent a year in Littleton, Colorado on a Rotary Club-sponsored student exchange program. My college years were spent at Lyon College in Batesville, Arkansas followed by graduate studies at Temple University. I defended my dissertation and received my doctorate from the Department of Economics in 2003. I am currently an associate professor at Stephen F. Austin State University. Things I like include gadgets, fitness, sports, standup comedy (watching, not doing it), cooking, and home improvement. I also generally enjoy learning new things. For any additional details, email me.