Name: Michele Wan

Age: 32

Occupation: I am a dog behaviorist. I am currently completing my doctoral dissertation in the Department of Psychology at Columbia University, where I have studied human interpretations of emotion in dogs, dogs' responses to emotion in humans, canine behavioral genetics, and other dog-related topics.  This summer, I am teaching a course at Columbia about the science of observing animal behavior, and I will be teaching about the evolution of behavior in the fall.  Locally, I also consult with dog owners about their dogs' behavioral issues (westportdogtraining.com).

How long have you lived in Westport? Almost 4 years.

Favorite Restaurant in Westport: My favorite restaurant is probably The Dressing Room. Alternatively, I really enjoy having a snack at the beach.  A frozen lemonade or ice cream is the perfect complement to a summer afternoon.

Why Westport? I enjoy the natural beauty of Westport - the parks and preserved areas, the river and the Sound.  Most of all, though, I enjoy seeing the dogs of Westport out and about with their owners, generally having a good ol' time!