Hometown: Dowagiac, Michigan

Major/Minor: Sociology and International Studies Major

Campus Organization(s): Inclusive Campus Collaborative Student Committee, Migrant Education Initiative

Let's get to know Victoria...

 

What inspired you to major in Sociology?

I took a class with Dr. Luis Sfeir-Younis the fall of my freshman year and would go on to take 3 more classes with him over the next year, eventually declaring Sociology as my major. He showed me the importance of Sociology in giving us the language to articulate our experiences and observations.

What classes have you most enjoyed? Why?

I've enjoyed all of my sociology classes, but the ones that have most made an impact in my personal and professional life have been the ones where I've been able to have hands-on, in-person experience with a topic. Especially Soc 495 with Becca Pickus and Soc 488/489 with Ian Robinson!

What do you hope to do after graduating from Michigan?

I hope to pursue graduate school, although I'm still looking into the right program and school for me. Alternatively, I would like to participate in a service-based program like Teach for America or the Peace Corps although I would also consider something like a Fulbright Fellowship. 

Have you participated in an internship or research experience?

Over the years, I've had the opportunity to participate in a variety of research experiences. My first project was in the Amcult department and we worked with queer academics, I would go on to participate in SOUL which eventually led me to a capstone in the Barger Leadership Institute. I"ve also done work on educational policy and community organizing. 

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

Do it! It's such a good way to gain awareness of our society and it's underlining dynamics. It's also useful in most, if not all, professions and it compliments many other LSA majors. 

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

Happy Wok