Let's get to know Adrian...

 

Hometown: Traverse City, Michigan

Major/Minor: Sociology, Women's and Gender Studies, and Southeast Asian Studies Triple Major

 

What inspired you to major in Sociology?

I originally became interested in Sociology after Professor Dean Hubbs introduced me to the subject during WGS 245: Intro LGBTQ+ Studies. Once I started taking some classes in the department, I realized that I loved the research aspect of Sociology, and that I wanted to continue honing my qualitative research skills. Beyond the intellectual aspect, all of the professor, GSIs, and classmates I have met through Sociology have been a wonderful community, which helped lead me to declaring a major!

 

What classes have you most enjoyed?

SOC 495: Gender and Family in East Asia and SOC 354: Law and Society

 

Have you participated in undergraduate research, fieldwork, or an internship experience?

Yes, I have worked on SURO projects with Chelle Jones and Anna Wozny, I do undergraduate research in public health through the SOAR (Student Opportunities for AIDS/HIV Research) Program, and this past summer I was part of the Honors Summer Fellows program where I worked on my thesis all summer.

 

How has Sociology helped you to understand the pandemics the U.S. is currently facing: COVID-19 and/or systemic racism?

Sociology has really helped me conceptualize COVID-19 as a social issue rather than an individual one. The impacts of COVID-19 go beyond the individual, and beyond this generation; using a sociological lens has helped me understand the ways in which collective social change/policy is necessary for appropriate public health approaches to ending the pandemic. Furthermore, I find that Sociology really bridges the gap between intellectual thought and human compassion. While academics are of course important, Sociology challenges us to think in ways that are the most compassionate and most caring for our communities.

 

What do you hope to do after graduating from the University of Michigan?

After I graduate, I hope to either attend graduate school or participate in a year-long fellowship in Thailand. Still waiting on what my options will be, but I'm excited either way!

 

Do you have advice for prospective Soc majors in this moment?

Get involved in research (especially the SURO program)! You will learn a whole new set of skills that you can't get in a classroom setting. Even if you decide research isn't your thing, you'll learn some very practical expertise that will help you through your Sociology major.