Courses in anthropology, migration, cultural politics, and ethnographic methods.
I believe anthropology's greatest contribution is its capacity to make the familiar strange and the strange familiar — to challenge assumptions, broaden perspectives, and develop empathy across difference. My courses are designed to give students both theoretical frameworks and practical research skills they can apply to understanding the complex, interconnected world they inhabit.
I emphasize collaborative learning, community-engaged research, and the ethical responsibilities that come with studying human communities. Students in my courses don't just read about other people's research — they design and conduct their own ethnographic projects, developing the observational, analytical, and writing skills that are valuable across careers.
Foundational course exploring core concepts in cultural anthropology — kinship, economy, religion, politics, identity, and globalization — through contemporary ethnographic case studies from around the world.
Examines the causes, experiences, and consequences of human migration across borders, with particular attention to the US-Mexico context, refugee movements, and the politics of citizenship and belonging.
Explores how young people around the world use music, art, fashion, digital media, and collective action to challenge authority, express identity, and create alternative social worlds.
Hands-on research methods course covering participant observation, interviewing, field notes, coding, analysis, and ethical practice. Students design and conduct original ethnographic research projects in local communities.