Let's get to know Morgan...

Hometown: Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan

Major/Minor: Sociology: Law, Justice and Social Change

Campus Organization(s): Diversity Peer Educator in University Housing, Black Student Union member, volunteer with 826Michigan

 

What inspired you to major in Sociology?

Essentially, I enrolled in Sociology 100 with Professor Jansen as a freshman and never left the department. I was so intrigued because I could see how many of the concepts applied to my life. After taking this course, I knew I found the perfect major to shape my pre-law journey and strengthen my ability to analyze the world around me.

 

What classes have you most enjoyed? Why?

My favorite classes have been Soc 354: Law and Society and Soc 404: Latinas/os in the U.S. I really enjoyed Soc 354 because it was the first major class I took that directly connected to my professional interests. This course challenged me to think more critically about our legal system from a sociological perspective, while engaging with current news events. Soc 404 was a great seminar about Latin American immigrant groups in the United States with a focus on factors that influence their migrations and the social problems that exist here for them. This is another course that helped further my professional interests, as I hope to work toward make our society more equitable for immigrant communities and other marginalized groups. 

 

What do you hope to do after graduating from Michigan?

I am not sure what I will be doing immediately after graduation, but have been looking into law schools and gap opportunities. Regardless, I'm excited to enjoy life and explore my interests outside of the classroom. 

 

Have you participated in an internship or research experience?

In the summer of 2018, I held a sales and marketing internship with a Detroit-based social enterprise called Rebel Nell. With it, I was able to blend my interests in art, business, and law while learning about the start-up sector in the city. They empower women through jewelry-making while providing resources to support them on their journey to independence. Each of the pieces is uniquely made from graffiti paint, so it was amazing to see each step of the process from the paint collection to the final product. Working alongside such powerful and creative women was an invaluable opportunity that I will never forget!

While I have not done formal research here, I did participate in a community-based learning project while taking the "Social Inequality" course taught by Professor Pfeffer. As a participant, I was able to learn about the education inequities that exist in Washtenaw County and partner with local organizations that are here to support children in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.

 

What advice would you give to students considering a major in Sociology at U-M?

The best advice I have would be for you to keep an open mind. Sociology is a an incredibly rich and complex subject to study, and it will take you to some fascinating places if you embrace it! 

 

Where is the best place in Ann Arbor to get late-night study food?

It depends on the day, but my go-to is Amer's Deli - I'll usually pick up some things before I head to the library that I can eat during breaks. When I'm really productive, I'll treat myself to a 7-Eleven slurpee on the way home.