Katy Lira

Research interests: Institutionalized Racism, Immigrant Rights, Rural policy

Emphasis: Teaching Sociology

Background: I come from a rural area of California which is composed of a large concentration of Mexican immigration. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand how certain policies in place (or lack thereof) continuously harmed and exploited such a vulnerable population. It is growing up in this community that led to my involvement in the fight for social equality.

Why CPH MA program: I graduated with my AA in Sociology in 2024 and transferred here to CPH as an undergrad. With the help of my department faculty, I am now the first student enrolled in the newly founded combined BA/MA program! The program allows me to simultaneously earn both degrees. This appeals to me as it allows me to get out into the field faster and begin my career in education, shaping the minds of the next generation of sociological thinkers.