20 Questions with Erin Ingvalson
- What was your first job?
That I got paid for? I worked as a photographer’s assistant in the 8th grade. I got fired. - If you were to write a personal memoir, what would you name it?
“Don’t Give Up”
- Where did you grow up?
Prosser, Washington. It’s in the middle of the Yakima Valley, right in the heart of wine country.
- What is your favorite class you’ve taught?
I really like having the opportunity to teach students hands-on in my laboratory. I got my start by working in a lab, learning how to conduct research through hands-on experience. I love giving students that same experience, and I’m so proud when they get to see their names on a poster or a paper.
- What is your favorite place to grab dinner in Tallahassee?
Miccosukee Root Cellar
- What are your hobbies outside of work?
Yoga, cooking, knitting, and reading. I’ve had an Ashtanga yoga practice for about 7 years now. I also like to bake, my family tells me I’m not too bad at it.
- Have you always wanted to teach?
No. I was trained as a researcher, and I worked primarily as a researcher for many years. Science will always be my first love.
- What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to or where would you like to go?
Probably Machu Picchu. Seeing it in person just blows the pictures away. It was amazing.
- How many football games have you attended?
At FSU? None. Overall, I can’t count. I grew up in a football town, my brother is now the head coach of my high school. I did my undergrad at Notre Dame and I attended every home game there, and a bunch since I graduated. - Proudest career/life moment?
Let’s hope I haven’t reached it yet. - What’s your favorite band?
The Beatles. - What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It all works out in the end. If it hasn’t worked out yet, it’s not the end. - If money were no object, how would you spend your days?
Traveling, reading, eating, spending time with family. I really like doing research, so I would still spend time on that. - What is your favorite book and why?
Unless it really stunk, probably whatever I read most recently. I don’t remember books very long. - If you could be famous for something, what would it be?
I don’t want to be famous. It doesn’t seem worth it. - What Jeopardy category could you clear, no problem?
Psychology - Do you have any pets?
One cat, named Tybae (said “Tee-bay”). She’s named for Jenny Saffran’s research on infants’ language learning. - When did you start working at Florida State University?
August 2014 - What was the last movie you saw in theaters?
Foxcatcher - What is the best part about your job?
The chance to always be asking questions.