Advising

Public Policy and Urban Affairs

Email: k09jm01@kzoo.edu
Hometown: Riverview, Michigan
Major: Anthropology and Sociology
Minor: Math
Concentration: Public Policy & Urban Affairs
Study Abroad: Kenya
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Mint Chocolate Chip
Best Adjective to Describe You: Optimistic

In 10 words or less, why should someone want to be a part of this department?

It’s engaging current issues and thinking outside the “K Bubble.”

When did you know you wanted to study this area?  What pathway led you to this department?

It just seemed obvious; I’m involved in service-learning and community-based programs, interested in urban planning, and the complementary overlap with my ANSO major made it the natural choice. 

What is the best way to get (and stay) connected to this department?

Get to know the students and professors, Public Policy & Urban Affairs classes are taught across a lot of departments and are so applicable to a lot of interests. 

What would you miss the most if you were no longer a part of this department?

The opportunity to connect what I’m learning at K beyond classes, understand current issues, and be an active participant in any community I’m living in. 

What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?

A Master’s program in urban planning has a lot of appeal, but not too soon.  I’d definitely like to work, get experience, and take my time figuring out life first. 

What has been the biggest surprise you have encountered at K?
Just how far-reaching the K network is, it’s always cool to meet people with ties to K in the most unexpected of places. 

How does your department connect to your other interests and activities?

I’ve been consistently involved in service-learning programs at K and internships with non-profits, PPUA classes are a good way to ground those experiences in social theory and broader ways to think about social action. 

What has been your favorite class at K?  Why?

It’s a tie between Contemporary Issues in Public Health and Space, Place, & Landscape; they’re both spring courses, participatory and project-based within the city, with so many thought-provoking readings and discussions.   

What is your SIP?

I’m defining, analyzing, and mapping indicators of ‘community vitality’ within Kalamazoo’s neighborhoods.

DSA Spotlights