What Students are Saying

Ethnic Studies is a valuable degree for a variety of reasons. Our students explain some of the reasons why Ethnic Studies has been valuable to them personally and professionally. 

Alfonso

"I think that there are tremendous benefits in taking Ethnic Studies courses. Not only does Ethnic Studies flesh out stereotypes and ignorance, this study further educates people on the beauty of culture and ways of life that challenges the colonial view of post-Ethnic Studies America. The study offers the chance to learn about cultures other than one's own, which can change how a person sees themselves as well as the those around them..." 

Abby Cillo 

Abby Cillo

"Ethnic Studies is becoming one of the most important areas of study. If we, as a nation, want to achieve the end of racism and intolerance, we must use the power of education. I personally believe Ethnic Studies should become a mandatory part of the primary education curriculum. We must begin before society embeds the power of racism within the minds of the youth. I have taken several Ethnic Studies courses over my college career. I apply the knowledge that I gained from these courses more in my daily life than I do algebra. Ethnic Studies classes offer a refreshingly truthful insight into what really happens in society."

Marika Fama

"I also believe that Ethnic Studies students do well because they're passionate about applying the topics and learning in a new way."

Marysia Grabowska

 

Dominique Harlan

"I thought I’d share why I chose to major in ethnic studies and the impact it’s had on me. The first ethnic studies course I had ever taken on campus was taught by Professor Green, and it was titled culture, racism, and alienation. In this course, I learned about an extremely cruel, subjugating tactic used by slave owners to ensure “obedience,” and it was called raw terror. Professor Green’s explanation of this practice stuck with me, and I decided then (at the time, 2019) if I ever wanted a minor, I’d pick ethnic studies. However, as I finished up my psychological coursework, my advisor informed me that I had room to either double-minor or pick another major. I, of course, chose to major in ethnic studies so I could learn all I could (not just about my own race/ethnicity, but others as well). 

That said, I strongly believe that if it weren’t for Professor Green’s impactful lecturing ability, I would’ve gone on to major in something else, which in turn might have prevented me from meeting other amazing professors and mentors, such as Katy Mohrman. I look at the world completely different now and I am so grateful for the insight that I’ve gained."

"I also believe that Ethnic Studies students do well because they're passionate about applying the topics and learning in a new way."

Jordan Henscheid

"Ethnic Studies has helped me to better understand the time and place in which I live, to recognize the severity of inequalities in education, employment, housing, health, and wealth due to the oppression of people of color, and to realize greater accountability to make a positive impact in y community somehow".

Jessica Maes 

"I think Ethnic Studies classes are some of the most valuable classes I have taken on this campus."

Chelsea Situmeang

"Ethnic Studies faculty members spend more time on advising and supplemental education than faculty in other areas".

 

Olivia (Liv) Smith