Hometown: Saginaw, MI

Major & (Intended) Minor: Sociology Major (Honors) & intended minor in Near Eastern Studies with an emphasis on Arabic

Campus Organizations: MUSIC Matters, Arts Chorale, & Michigan Refugee Assistance Program

Let's get to know Kallan...

What inspired you to major in Sociology?

I come from a very religious background, so I've always been interested in how and why social identity impacts some people in different ways than it does others. Studying Sociology allows me to explore that every single day - it's a major that teaches you how to approach questions you have and topics you find intriguing.

What classes have you most enjoyed? Why?

My favorite classes have been SOC 379 (Sports, Politics, and Society) and SOC 218 (Foundations of Intergroup Relations). 218 gave a great overview of the issues facing people of various social identities, and I loved how much I was able to learn from my peers. 379 allowed me to apply social theory to topics I'm passionate about, and I got to write a paper about Michigan Football!

What do you hope to do after graduating from Michigan?

I want to obtain my PhD in Sociology and work for a research fact tank.

What advice would you give to students considering a major in Sociology at UM?

First of all, stop considering and do it! Take classes from as many different professors as you can - they all have fascinating backgrounds and approach sociology with different styles. I'd also encourage you to take classes for your distribution requirements to which you can apply a sociological lens.

Have you participated in an internship or research experience?

I'm currently working on the Health and Retirement Study at the Institute for Social Research, where I've been coding data and conducting cognitive interviews to revise our survey.

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

Pizza Bob's for milkshakes!