Janet Steele, George Washington University, USA
What are you researching at the moment?
Much of the literature on media development in the West Balkans has focused on the transition to democracy and the role of what is almost always described as the “legendary” radio station B92. I hope to expand my research into media in developing democracies by looking specifically at the case of B92 and its relationship to the Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF)’s innovative model of media assistance.
What is your go-to website for news and analysis?
New York Times and Washington Post
Do you have a writing routine?
The best advice I ever got about writing I read many years ago while working on my doctoral dissertation: try to write for two hours every day. Even if you feel that you are getting nothing done, you are still thinking about and engaged with your topic. Some days you will write for much more than two hours, but if two hours is your minimum and your objective, it is manageable.
What was the worst advice you have been given?
Have you ever been inspired by a student? If so, how?
All the time! I have been inspired by so many students. Some are brilliant scholars and analysts; others are brilliant writers. It is both gratifying and humbling to see how far they have outdistanced me.
Name one thing that you would do if you were not a professor?
I would probably be a counselor or therapist.
Describe Balkan in three words
Complicated, fascinating, and welcoming.
Would you share with us something you would never put in your CV?
When I was a graduate student, I managed the Johns Hopkins Grad Club, a student-run bar. I bartended, kept the books, and often worked the clean-up shift. The lessons I learned there I have used throughout my entire life.
