Welcome to Jessica K. Sklar's Home Page!

Department of Mathematics • Pacific Lutheran University • Tacoma, WA 98447-0003
Office: MCLT 261
Phone: (253) 535-8341
Fax: (253) 535-8700
sklarjk@plu.edu

A Little Bit About Me

St. Emilion, 2007

I am an Associate Professor of Mathematics at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA. I received my Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Oregon in June, 2001, under the guidance of Professor Frank Anderson, and couldn't have been happier with my choices of school and advisor. My current research interests lie in the areas of abstract algebra and the popularizing of mathematics. I received my B.A. in Mathematics and English from Swarthmore College back in 1995, and obtained my Master's degree in Mathematics from the University of Oregon in 1997.

I have three beautiful kitties: Boo, Bear and Yoshi. It was not intentional that they are all color-coordinated.

Be Not Afraid

Are you scared of math? Don't be! It can be difficult, confusing, and strange; but it can also be beautiful and exciting, when you get past your fear. Yes, math can sometimes be boring. And it can require a lot of work. In these ways, it is like any other art, whether it's mastery of the violin or of karate ("...wax on...wax off..."). But, just like music, mathematics can be elegant and full of wonder. And I am here to help you! You're welcome to talk to me about any worries or concerns you have about the subject, or vent about previous bad math experiences (we've all had them). I do have one request, however. Feel free to approach the subject with hesitation or concern, but try not to approach it with hate or disgust: it's hard to get past hate. Concerns, however, can be alleviated, and together we can make the monster of math seem much less scary!

Teaching
My office is Office 261 in the Morken Center.
My office hours are MWF 12:30 - 1:30 pm; you can also email me any time at at sklarjk@plu.edu.
(You will likely reach me more quickly via email than via the phone.)
This fall, I will be teaching the following courses:

Math 151
Calculus I

Math 381
Seminar in Problem Solving

Math 433
Abstract Algebra I

Math 499
Capstone: Senior Seminar

(For a complete list of classes I've taught, see my cv.)
I am also co-coordinating our seminar series. If you have any ideas for speakers (including yourself!), let me know.

Research

My research is in the areas of abstract algebra and the popularizing of mathematics (e.g., examining the intersections of math and art). An ongoing collaborative math-art project of mine is The Ideal Vacuum. Care to see my curriculum vitae?

Links

Math Links PLU Links
Fun Links

Last significant update: June 4, 2007.