News and Events

Gender Lecture Series Fall 2024: Feminism(s) and Foster Care

Presented by the Gender Studies Program at the School of Interdisciplinary Studies, the Fall 2024 installment of our ongoing Gender Lecture Series features UTD’s own Dr. Katherine Davies. In her lecture, “Feminism(s) and Foster Care,” Dr. Davies asks: what can feminist theorizing teach us about the foster care system in the United States? Davies shows how various feminist frameworks—feminist care ethics, Black feminism, abolition feminism, critical phenomenology—invite us to rethink how we understand what care, home, and family mean for those touched by this system.

Tickets are free, but space is limited. Click the link to register now and reserve your seat.

More about our speaker: Dr. Katherine Davies is Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Texas at Dallas, where she specializes in feminist theory and continental philosophy. She received her PhD in philosophy from Emory University in 2017. She is the author of the forthcoming monograph Heidegger’s Conversations: Toward a Poetic Pedagogy (State University of New York Press). Her articles have appeared in Research in Phenomenology, Arendt Studies, and Epoché: A Journal for the History of Philosophy, among other scholarly venues. She was named the National Humanities Center 2023-24 Philip L. Quinn Fellow to support her in-progress monograph currently entitled When Home Isn’t: Theorizing the Family Policing System. This talk is drawn from that work.

When: Thursday, September 12, 2024 at 5:30pm to 7:00pm

Where: CTL Classroom, MC 2.404 (Eugene McDermott Library)

If you have questions, email kyle.lee@utdallas.edu.

“New year, who dIS?”A School of IS Weeks of Welcome Event!

Join the School of IS for Weeks of Welcome 2024! Find out the answer to “New year, who dIS?” We will have sweet treats, games, giveaways, and prizes to help you start the new school year!

Where: Hoblitzelle Hall Lobby

When: Thursday, August 22, 12 – 2 pm

What: Games, giveaways, food, and fun!

Tickets are free, but make sure you register here: http://utd.link/iswow24.

Student Spotlight: Amri Carrasco Carves Her Own Path

Tomorrow, when Amri Carrasco crosses the stage at the ATC Lecture Hall to receive her diploma, it will be the second time she has done so in less than six months. It seems impossible, but Amri has made a habit of achieving what seems impossible.

Amri’s remarkable higher education journey begins in 2020, when she spent her last months of high school at the National Institutes of Health in Maryland receiving a bone marrow transplant due to an inherited deficiency in her GATA2 gene. As a result of this condition, Amri’s immune system had to be rebuilt completely. “Leading up to the transplant they give you chemotherapy to kill your existing immune system, so you’re in a really fragile state.” Unfortunately, Amri’s fragile state coincided with the peak of the COVID-19 epidemic in 2020.

“The scary part was the chemotherapy. My body was having a really hard time adjusting to having a new immune system and especially being on immunosuppressants, I got sick a lot. I lost a lot of weight. At one point the chemotherapy did a lot of damage to my gastrointestinal tract so I couldn’t swallow or speak for a week.”

By contrast, “the actual day that I got my bone marrow transplant was really boring.” Amri explains that the transplant itself consisted of donated stem cells being introduced to her body. Luckily, the procedure was successful. “My immune system is four years old now which is kind of interesting. I have to get vaccines that you would get for babies because the transplant reset everything.”

While recovering, Amri completed high school virtually from a hospital bed, and later, after returning home to Plano, enrolled in Collin College, where early signs of her interdisciplinary leanings were apparent in her favorite class: an examination of how famous philosophers such as Aristotle, Kant, and Camus would approach the zombie apocalypse. Already, Amri had a passion for the humanities, but her deepest passion was for human relationships and how to make them better.

“When I was in high school, I had an amazing AP psychology teacher. He was so wacky, and he had a tweed jacket with elbow patches and crazy hair. He was always excited to teach us about psychology. So, for a while there I was convinced that being a psychologist or counselor was what I wanted to do. I really care about making people’s relationships better and their relationship with themselves better, so I thought that I wanted to go into psychology.”

However, as she was leaving Collin College, Amri knew one thing for certain. “I knew I wanted to go to UTD,” she explains. “My fiancé goes here, and I live close by so my family would be able to come and support me through every step… But I didn’t really think the psychology degree was right for me.”

Amri kept exploring UTD degree plans, finally finding the perfect fit for her. “I saw that the School of Interdisciplinary Studies would allow me to carve my own path. I thought that was amazing because everywhere else that I was looking at, I wouldn’t be able to really customize my degree. I would be beholden to what the university expects of me, and I was like, well, what if I want to take all these different psychology and sociology and English classes? What if I want to do my own thing and I really want to be supported in doing my own thing? That’s important to me.”

“What if I want to do my own things and I really want to be supported in doing my own thing? That’s important to me.”
Amri Carrasco

With the help of her advisor, Amri created a customized degree plan for the Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (BAIS). “I.S. is really the only degree plan I found that would let me be my own person and do what I want to do. I knew it was going to be perfect for me to build my own path. With the I.S. program, I’m not forced to make choices that I know aren’t best suited for me or that I’m not interested in or that I’m going to struggle in. I wanted to be able to pick and choose what works best for me.”

The BAIS is designed with a foundation of two schools – in Amri’s case, the School of Arts, Humanities and Technology, and the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences – and a concentration. Amri’s concentration, Lifespan Development, led her to seek out “any classes I could find that were related to the human lifespan and a person’s growth over time.” She took courses in sociology, psychology, and family relations, as well as humanities courses that examined these topics in the context of literature, music, film, and even anime and video games.

Amri finished her bachelor’s coursework in August 2023, walked the stage that December, and is graduating in May 2024 with her Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (MAIS) after entering the fast-track program, which allows certain undergraduate courses to count toward both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Because of this, and the fact that Amri took AP courses in high school that transferred as college credit and chose the 30-hour MAIS, she has managed to complete both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in four years. “It’s really saved me a lot of time so I can jump into a career,” she says.

“I think the beauty of my degree in Interdisciplinary Studies is that anywhere I go I can stand out as one of the best candidates because I have the most experience in so many different disciplines.”
amri carrasco

With the guidance of the MAIS program director, Dr. Syed Naqvi, Amri designed a graduate degree in Family and Social Relations. This course of study will allow her to craft a career that aligns with her overarching goal in life: “I really want to better my relationships with people.” Right now, Amri is a junior associate at Fisher Investments, hoping to develop a mentorship program for others in her position who need guidance navigating their career and interpersonal paths. But Amri has never limited herself and doesn’t intend to start.

“I think the beauty of my degree in Interdisciplinary Studies is that anywhere I go I can stand out as one of the best candidates because I have the most experience in so many different disciplines, whereas if I just got my degree in psychology or English I don’t know if I’d be able to market myself as effectively. With Interdisciplinary Studies, I’ve got you covered in every discipline you can think of. I can help whatever company I work for get better at whatever discipline they’re lacking in because I have that knowledge.”

As she leaves UTD, Amri has zero regrets. “I don’t think I would do anything differently, because I think that the way that I’ve done my degree, I have gotten a lot of amazing coursework in that I wouldn’t have gotten otherwise.”

You’re Invited! I.S. Is Opens Its Doors to The Whole School With A Piñata Party Celebrating National Piñata Day

Spring is here, and we are psyched! Come celebrate the season with us at the first annual School of I.S. Piñata Party! We will have games, giveaways, lots of food, and the chance to win raffle prizes. Grab a samosa and hit the lawn for some cornhole, then be sure to stick around to take a whack at a piñata! If you’re a UTD student, staff, or faculty member, you’re invited! Bring your friends from all over campus for a chill afternoon at HH. Check in at the registration table in the lobby, grab some grub, then kick it on the lawn and soak up the sun. Click here to register on Comet Calendar!

Where: Karl Hoblitzelle Hall

When: April 18th from 3:00 to 5:00

Who: You and all your homies

Alumni Spotlight: Brenda Le’s Journey From School of I.S. Student To Faculty Member

Brenda Le’s journey from student to faculty member at the School of Interdisciplinary Studies is a testament to the strength and flexibility of the Education program.

Le’s story began in high school, where she discovered her passion for teaching. “I put myself in an Elementary Teaching Internship to get rid of a PE credit,” she explains, “and then I ended up really liking teaching, so I chose that as my major.” Graduating in 2008, Le chose UTD for its proximity and renowned programs, ultimately pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (BAIS) with a concentration in Education, a precursor to the now-offered Bachelor’s in Education.

Reflecting on her time at UTD, Le recalls the impactful lessons she learned, particularly from Dr. Tonja Wissinger’s Women in Management class. “It was eye-opening how women view luck and skill. If women are good at something, they say oh, it’s because of luck. But if men are good at something, it’s because of skill,” she reminisces, emphasizing the insights gained about gender dynamics in the workplace.

Upon completing her degree, Le embarked on her teaching journey, starting with a stint at Lyles Middle School in Garland. Despite initial challenges, she found her footing, transitioning from student teacher to 8th-grade math instructor.

Driven by a desire to expand her impact, Le pursued higher education concurrently with her teaching career. Opting for an MBA from UTD’s Jindal School, she sought a versatile qualification while still unsure of her long-term trajectory. “I was in that transition phase—is this something I want to keep doing for my career? Is this something that I want to try for a bit or try something else? So that’s why I went with an MBA; I felt like it was very universal.” Juggling coursework with teaching responsibilities, Le navigated through challenges, including health issues, emerging triumphant with her MBA in hand.

Yet, Le’s thirst for knowledge persisted. “I decided to start my doctorate,” she said, “and unfortunately here they don’t have a doctorate in Education so I couldn’t choose UTD again or I would have.” She enrolled in Grand Canyon University’s online doctoral program, where her research focused on teacher retention and its correlation with middle school principal leadership, a topic close to her heart after witnessing high turnover rates in her own career.

While researching her dissertation, she found a strong correlation between quality leadership and increased teacher retention. “A lot of it comes down to, is the principal present? Are they around and available to teachers and providing that support? Another was teachers need to feel valued, and if you don’t feel like what you’re doing is being recognized or appreciated, or it’s making a difference, then you definitely don’t want to stay. You need a constant reminder of why you’re doing it and why it’s important and that you’re doing a good job.”

Le’s educational journey came full circle when she returned to UTD as part-time faculty teaching Math Concepts for Teachers. “It felt like coming home,” she says. “When I came in for the interview, it didn’t feel like an interview. It felt like a reunion, because there were people in the room like Dr. Wissinger, who I had as a professor a long time ago. Now, I’m applying to be one of the professors here. That’s so crazy.”

Today, as an instructional coach at Lakeview Centennial High School in Garland, Le is dedicated to supporting fellow educators. Her transition from classroom teacher to coach underscores her commitment to continuous growth and service, and her understanding of the difficult job teachers do. “I’m here to create things and make life easier for you,” she says of her relationships with the educators she supports as an instructional coach.

Asked about her advice to prospective students considering UTD’s education programs, Le highlights the university’s comprehensive preparation, particularly through the Teacher Development Center. “You’re not just thrown in,” she emphasizes, recounting her own journey from observation to student teaching under the guidance of experienced mentors. “You have a full semester where you’re in the classroom partnered with a mentor teacher; you’re not here on campus at all. Student teaching is your job. You’re actually doing it. Slowly your mentor teacher will let go of you and you become the teacher in the classroom, so near the end of it, you’re the teacher now.”

Le’s personal passions also include cosplay as the Yellow Power Ranger, an activity born from a childhood realization. “When I was a kid there was nobody on TV that looked like me; Trini [Kwan] was the only Asian person that was on TV, and I really latched on to that. I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, she looks like me!’ I really liked that, and I liked the idea that she was out there being a superhero.”

A superhero in her own right, Brenda Le has dedicated her career to supporting educators, even as she educates a future generation of teachers at UT Dallas.

To start your own odyssey in Education, view our programs or contact the Teacher Development Center.

Gender Lecture Series Spring 2024: “What’s So Wrong With Women Reading?”

The School of Interdisciplinary Studies Gender Studies Program presents the Spring 2024 installment of the Gender Lecture Series, “What’s So Wrong With Women Reading?” presented by Dr. Yung-Hsing Wu.

Patriarchy has a long history of mistrusting women readers — they are said to read poorly, to exhibit poor taste in their reading choices, to be too impressionable. What do we make of the fact that feminism has historically exhibited a similar ambivalence?

In this talk, Dr. Wu argues that reading was represented in second-wave feminist popular fiction as both a figure for transformation and a site of anxiety. The consciousness-raising novel that gave the women’s liberation movement a public face did so with a plot arc that disappears women’s reading lives. Ironically, the genre also prompted feminist concern that fiction might be precisely the reason that women readers’ politicization would go unrealized.

Speaker Bio: Dr. Yung-Hsing Wu is Professor of English at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where she teaches feminist theory and print culture. She is the author of a forthcoming book from the University of Massachusetts Press called Closely and Consciously: Reading the U.S. Women’s Liberation Movement. She explains, “I spend too much time thinking about reading and identification, about which I have written in a variety of contexts, including what Gayatri Spivak has called the cult of Jane Eyre, what it feels like to be an ethnic academic token, and the impossible judgements Toni Morrison demands of her readers in her novels Sula and Beloved. This talk is one result of that thinking, which is at the core of Closely and Consciously.”

Alumni Spotlight: Dedric Joubert II, A First-Generation Pre-Law Alumnus With A Passion for Justice & Representation

In the academic world, choices can be overwhelming. Dedric Joubert II’s story stands as a testament to the transformative power of higher education. As a recent graduate of the American Studies program at the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD), Dedric’s unique journey, marked by resilience, determination, and a passion for justice, sheds light on the effectiveness of the cross-disciplinary approach in general, and the distinctive opportunities offered by UTD’s School of Interdisciplinary Studies in particular.

A Rocky Start

Dedric’s academic journey began with its fair share of challenges. At 17, he enrolled at Lone Star Community College in Houston, where he struggled to find his footing and soon faced academic warning with a 1.2 GPA. Overwhelmed by the pressures of college, he took a hiatus and worked in a warehouse, where he soon realized the importance of obtaining a degree. With newfound focus, Dedric returned to education.

“I was focused and driven and able to bring my GPA from a 1.2 up to a 3.6,” Dedric recalls.

Choosing UTD: A Diverse and Welcoming Community

Upon touring UTD, Dedric found a home in what he calls a “diverse and welcoming” academic community. Drawn to the university’s “academic drive,” he appreciated the concentration of like-minded students dedicated to their studies. “I heard it wasn’t a party school, and when I got here, I realized, ‘Oh, it’s really not a party school!’…Everybody’s focused, everybody’s doing their work. And if you’re in that type of environment, how could you not do your work? I thought it would make me a better student just by being around better students.” He was right. “I had to get a 4.0 pretty much 4 or 5 straight semesters to raise my GPA,” he recalls, reflecting on a meteoric educational trajectory.

In his pursuit of a degree, Dedric deliberately sought a program that offered both diversity and flexibility. Eschewing the traditional Political Science undergraduate program traditionally sought by students who, like Dedric, plan to attend law school, he took a different approach.

“I wanted to do something a little different because I knew I wouldn’t stand out if I was PoliSci. So, I found the American Studies program at UTD and I felt like it was a really good opportunity,” Dedric explains, emphasizing the allure of the program’s customizable nature.

“I heard it wasn’t a party school, and when I got here, I realized, ‘Oh, it’s really not a party school!’”
Dedric joubert ii

Designing A Degree in American Studies

The American Studies program at UTD offers a unique approach to education, allowing students to tailor their degrees with concentrations. Dedric found this particularly appealing, noting, “You can take pretty much take whatever class you want. Choose your concentration. That was very influential to the decision.”

Dedric’s choice of his two option areas, plus adding a Political Science minor, exemplifies the program’s flexibility. This not only allowed him to pursue his academic interests but also provided a solid foundation for his future aspirations in law.

“I felt that it made the most sense to choose Law, Legality, and Culture, because that’s where I’m trying to go, and then Race and Ethnicity as well because that’s just something that’s very important to me, with my own race,” Dedric explains, emphasizing the connection between his coursework and his personal convictions.

Preparation for Law School and Real-World Challenges

Dedric’s coursework delved into a diverse range of topics, from criminal justice and immigration to juvenile crime, corrections, and the Civil Rights movement in Texas. He notes, “Working as an attorney, you have to know people. You have to understand people and their backgrounds and their stories. And this major has honestly prepared me well for that.”

American Studies, Dedric has learned, reaches deep into psychology, sociology, criminology, and beyond. “I’m really learning about the culture of America, how the country works, all these intertwining things that have prepared me to apply for law school.”

His dedication to understanding societal issues reflects a broader commitment to addressing the underrepresentation of certain groups within the legal profession. “I want to give back. We’re underrepresented within the law world, and when I chose to go into law, I wanted to show younger kids that look like me, you can do this,” Dedric states, embodying the spirit of giving back to his community.

“Working as an attorney, you have to know people. You have to understand people and their backgrounds and their stories. And this major has honestly prepared me well for that.”
dedric joubert ii

An I.S. Alumnus Committed to Giving Back

As Dedric looks forward to taking the LSAT and applying to law schools, he plans to remain connected with UTD and the School of Interdisciplinary Studies by joining the Alumni Association. His commitment to giving back stems from a deep appreciation for the opportunities and personal growth he has experienced since he transferred here.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity UTD has provided me, and for offering such a cool major,” Dedric said. “I feel like I came to college, and I didn’t just get a degree, I also became a better person because of the content I was learning, and the classes I was taking.”

#CreateTheFuture with American Studies at UTD

Dedric’s journey underscores the unique opportunities the American Studies degree provides to students like him seeking meaningful careers in law, criminal justice, and public service. His story showcases the invaluable contributions of the School of Interdisciplinary Studies, which roots multifaceted degrees in a solid core of liberal arts and sciences. The AMS program in particular is vital to our community’s future. Abraham Lincoln said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Scholars like Dedric are taking the integrative and socially conscious education they received at UTD’s School of I.S. into a world that sorely needs them, creating a future they can be proud of.

In celebrating Dedric Joubert II’s achievements, we celebrate the potential for transformation and growth that education, particularly through interdisciplinary studies, can offer. His story is not just about overcoming obstacles but about choosing a path that aligns with one’s values and aspirations—an ethos that defines the American Studies program at UTD.

Student Spotlight: Al Scott, Redefining Success at 42

Meet Alvoid Scott III, a Class of ’23 graduate who proves it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. Graduating with a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies at the age of 42, Al’s journey inspires anyone contemplating going back to school or changing career paths.

From Mortgage Industry Master to Future Educator

Al’s story began with uncertain college years, merely going through the motions without a clear path. “I was honestly in college just because that’s what you’re supposed to do,” said Al. Then life happened, and with two daughters to support, Al found himself in the mortgage industry, chasing financial success. It took the pandemic for Al to reevaluate his priorities and remember a promise he made to his children and other loved ones – to finally complete his degree.

Overcoming Challenges and Excuses

Navigating the challenges of being a single father and supporting a blended family, Al faced the intimidating idea of returning to school after two decades. “The hardest part of it was contacting somebody and just following through with it,” he said. “I was super nervous because it’s been twenty years.” Yet, he found the School of Interdisciplinary Studies to be a welcoming environment, providing flexible class options that accommodated his work schedule. “When they told me I only had six classes, I was like, there’s no reason for me not to finish.”

Design Your Own Degree at the School of Interdisciplinary Studies

Al’s positive experience is what the School of Interdisciplinary Studies strives for. You’re weird? So are we. Our school embraces diverse interests, unconventional schedules, and off-the-beaten-path approaches to craft personalized degrees. Advisor Kasey McKee saw Al’s determination to finish and took a second look at his degree plan. “I looked closer and noticed if we reworked his degree plan, he was actually completed! And now he’s our student speaker for graduation!” Our advisors understand a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t right for everyone, so they ensure every student’s journey is tailored to their unique circumstances. “This is one of the best parts of the IS plan: how customizable it can be to maximize your credits,” said Kasey.

Passion for Teaching and Making a Difference

Beyond the classroom, Al has been coaching girls’ basketball for over 20 years, showcasing his passion for education and mentoring. His desire to transition into teaching reflects his commitment to making a lasting impact. “That’s always been what I wanted to do,” says Al of teaching. “I feel like I can make a difference.” Al believes in taking a few steps back to move forward, illustrating his dedication to personal and professional growth.

It’s Never Too Late to Redefine Success

Al Scott’s story is a testament to the School of Interdisciplinary Studies’ commitment to helping each student design their own degree. No matter your age, background, or previous educational experiences, this school offers a supportive environment for non-traditional students like Al to thrive. Join us in celebrating Al’s achievement, and consider starting your own transformative journey today!

#SuccessStory #NonTraditionalStudent #DesignYourDegree #Inspiration #EducationJourney

Hey, I.S. freshmen: it’s a Halloween party based on Evidence of Love!

Make sure you follow us on Instagram for a sneak peek at the prizes!

Free Professional Headshots for I.S. Students

The School of I.S., in cooperation with the University Career Center, is hosting a free headshot event on Wednesday, October 18, from 1 to 4 pm in the Hoblitzelle Hall lobby. Professional dress is expected. We will not be accepting walk-ups. If you cannot schedule an appointment for this event, contact the University Career Center about other ways to obtain a free headshot. Time slots are 10 minutes, and you will meet briefly with a UCC career counselor to review your LinkedIn profile before your session.

Are you using a selfie for your LinkedIn profile picture? Or maybe a photo your friend snapped in less-than-profesh conditions? A professional headshot can be the difference between landing the interview and being looked over. Professional photographer Alonzo Quintero will take your photo in a few short minutes, and we will send you a link to download your headshot the following week.

The University Career Center will also provide free career counseling at the event.

Resume and Cover Letter Workshop

This is an I.S. Exclusive event! Please do not invite non-I.S. students. Space is limited.

Join us at this exclusive event for Interdisciplinary Studies students. A UTD Career Center certified career counselor will show you how to get the most out of your resume and cover letter to maximize your education, expertise, and skills, and empower you to launch your career. Space is limited, so register on Handshake now.

When: September 28, 2023 1:00 pm

Where: ML2 1.216

Click here for an interactive campus map.

View the event on Comet Calendar.

If you have questions, contact universitycareercenter@utdallas.edu.

Gender Lecture Series Fall 2023

Join us for the Fall 2023 Gender Lecture Series event! View it on Comet Calendar here and register in advance as space is limited.

How Sweet it I.S.: A School of I.S. Weeks of Welcome Event!

Don’t miss out on the festivities and sweet treats at How Sweet It I.S.

When: Thursday, August 31st 2:00 – 4:00

Where: Karl Hoblitzelle Hall Lobby

What: Treats, sweets, drinks, giveaways, T-shirts, contests, games, and more! Plus meet I.S. staff and students, and just have a good time!

Check out the event on CometCalendar.

Have questions? Email Kristen Walker.

Free Professional Headshot for I.S. Students

The School of I.S., in cooperation with the University Career Center, is hosting a free headshot event Thursday, July 27, from 1 to 4 pm in the Hoblitzelle Hall lobby. Professional dress is expected. We will not be accepting walk-ups. If you’re unable to schedule an appointment for this event, contact the University Career Center about other ways to obtain a free headshot. Time slots are only three minutes, so arrive on time or risk losing your time slot.

Are you using a selfie for your LinkedIn profile picture? Or maybe a photo your friend snapped in less-than-profesh conditions? A professional headshot can make the difference between landing the interview and being looked over. Professional photographer Alonzo Quintero will get your photo taken in 5 minutes or less, and you’ll be able to download your shots the following week.

The University Career Center will also provide optional free career counseling at the event.

Celebrate International Yoga Day With a Free Yoga Workshop

As the proud home of the Healthcare Studies program at UTD, Interdisciplinary Studies invites you to explore the mind-body health connection as we celebrate International Yoga Day with a FREE 50 minute yoga workshop.

When: Wednesday, June 21^st at 11:30 am

Where: Hoblitzelle Hall Lobby

Click here to register for free.

Bring a yoga mat or towel if you have one. The event is open to all students, staff, and faculty.

Your instructor AJ Crowell is Assistant Director of the Teacher Development Center. She trained in Rishikesh, India, at Samadhi Ashram and is certified in Kundalini yoga and pranayama. She also specializes in teaching Hatha and Yen styles.

Don’t miss this opportunity to nurture your mind, body, and spirit! Namaste!

I.S. Free Professional Headshot Event (Tuesday, Apr 18th at 1 – 4pm)

The School of I.S., in cooperation with the University Career Center, is hosting a free headshot event Tuesday, April 18, from 1 to 4 pm in the Hoblitzelle Hall lobby. Sign up for a time slot here. If space becomes limited, priority will be given to graduating seniors.

The University Career Center will also provide optional free career counseling at the event. Time slots are only five minutes, so arrive on time or risk losing your time slot. If there is additional time, or no-shows, there may be time for walk-ins.

New Faculty and Course Addition at The School of Interdisciplinary Studies

by Dante Jaramillo | January 11, 2023

We want to welcome Dr. Torrie Cropps who will be joining our Interdisciplinary Studies faculty. She will be teaching AMS 4379 Special Topics in American Studies – Environmental Justice.

Dr. Torrie Cropps is a research scientist in the UTD Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Her research there focuses broadly on strategies to promote equity in faculty hiring.

Her research interests include the mentoring, advising and socialization of marginalized graduate students; Black collegiate women; marginalized groups in STEM + agriculture; and critical qualitative research.

AMS 4379 course description via her syllabus:

The purpose of this course is to examine and explore historical and contemporary issues and topics related to environmental racism, ecofeminism/ecowomanism, and environmental justice. Environmental justice analyzes how paradigms, historical inequities, and systemic oppression impacts marginalized people and their environments. A critical lens in environmental discourse is needed to better understand the complex historical/political/economic/social contexts, phenomena, and relationships that undermine the achievement of equitable access and outcomes for marginalized groups and their environments. Our understanding will help us to radically challenge, critique, build, care for, and imagine theory, our communities, and our bodies.

Course readings and videos will be available in Blackboard. To prepare for class, please read readings and watch videos prior to class. When we are unprepared for class our discussion suffers.

I.S. Student Spotlight: Tori Sonkin

by Kristen Walker | December 14, 2022

Tori Sonkin has a problem.

“I have a lot of allergies…Eggs, milk, wheat, soy – soy’s a big one – shrimp, peanuts… It’s a lot.”

Like millions of other people across the globe, UTD sophomore Sonkin’s severe food allergies affect her daily life and make it difficult to eat anywhere but home without serious risk to her health. She never goes anywhere without her EpiPen, a device intended to treat a potentially fatal allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, and which Sonkin explains costs “$600 to $700 for one injection.”

So she started wondering why, in 2022, the only way to know for sure if a food contains allergens is to eat it and wait for a reaction.

“I wanted a device that tested food before I ate it,” she explained. “An EpiPen, you use that after you eat, and after you have the allergic reaction… Why isn’t there a device that tests your food before, so you don’t have to use an EpiPen, or get hospitalized, or any of that?… The EpiPen should be your last resort.”

In 2004, the FDA passed the FALCPA [Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection] Act, requiring food products to be labeled with common allergens such as milk, wheat, soy, peanuts, and tree nuts. However, as Sonkin explained, “when you’re at a restaurant they’re not forced to warn the consumers. And people die in restaurants. It’s a lot more common than people think.”

In fact, witnessing such an event had a major impact on Sonkin. “I actually witnessed a guy die in a restaurant once. It was very terrifying… It’s not fair. You want to enjoy your time with your family over food, but instead it turns out to be this terrible experience.”

Sonkin came up with an idea to solve the problem food allergy sufferers face when dining out: it’s a small, portable laboratory-quality test that can detect food allergens in a small sample and return an instant result.

When researching, Sonkin found there are a few such tests that exist, but they only focus on one allergen. “What about the people that have multiple allergies?” Sonkin asks. “Am I supposed to spend $1,000 on every single testing kit?”

“There are so many different paths people can take, and it’s all really interesting.”
Tori Sonkin, Interdisciplinary Studies Student

Sonkin, an Interdisciplinary Studies student, decided to pitch her idea at the GalXc women’s accelerator, an 8-week program held every fall at the UT Dallas Naveen Jindal School of Management. GalXc ultimately helps participants “develop skills and competencies to become effective business leaders and founders of high-achieving startups,” according to the website. Throughout the year, JSOM hosts other accelerators – cohort-based programs of fixed length providing training and mentorship for students, faculty, and staff working to develop new companies or products.

Sonkin worked on developing her food-allergen-testing idea at GalXc – in particular, a pitch deck to sell the idea. A pitch deck is a short series of slides that briefly explain an idea and its potential to be sold as a product. Sonkin’s pitch won first place at GalXc and inspired her to keep working on the product “until someone tells me it’s just not possible,” she explained.

“I think people are too scared to explore it because there are so many different things in food that makes that allergen.” Despite the complicated nature of the problem, after considerable research Sonkin does think a portable test that detects all the major food allergens is possible.

She credits the School of I.S. with broadening her horizons, saying interdisciplinary study “really opens up your mind… I just took a lot of random classes – chemistry, psychology – but it was kind of nice… There are so many different paths people can take, and it’s all really interesting.”

Sonkin’s future career goals include studying global business and putting to use her passion for languages. However, she’s open to other possibilities. “I’m kind of just going with the flow… If I have a set plan, it always goes wrong.”

Spooktober Book Mixer 2022

November 17, 2022

Three students sitting down at a table holding their game prizes.

This October, the School of Interdisciplinary Studies hosted our annual Spooktober Book Mixer, a festive opportunity for BIS 1100 Freshman Seminar students to unwind toward the end of a long semester spent reading The Secret to Superhuman Strength by Alison Bechdel. Popcorn, brownies, and cookies were served, and several Halloween-themed games were hosted by Dr. Kaaz Naqvi. Game and costume contest winners walked away with UTD blankets, beanies, insulated water bottles, Bluetooth speakers, and more. Check out Temoc’s awesome costume and enjoy a recap of the event in this video.

Previous Course Returns: AMS 4304 Communication in America

November 8, 2022

A previously taught course will be returning for the Spring 2023 semester. AMS 4304 will be taught by Dante Jaramillo, an emerging media and communication expert. The course will be in-person and cover a wide variety of topics on how technology and communication shape America’s society.

For more information, contact your advisor for registration eligibility.

Interdisciplinary Studies Student Speakers – Spring 2022

May 13, 2022

Interdisciplinary Comets: Where Are They Now? – MAIS Edition

January 19, 2022

This past August, Kevin White was appointed head men’s soccer coach at Centenary College in Shreveport, Louisiana. He was previously the assistant soccer coach at UTD for 8 years. In his time at UT-Dallas, White helped lead the Comets to four American Southwest Conference regular season championships, three ASC tournament titles, and four NCAA tournament appearances. UT-Dallas was 100-29-12 and 56-8-12 in conference play in that span.

White has previously served as a Staff Coach for both the North Texas State Soccer Association (2009-15) and the North Texas Celtic Futbol Club (2010-17). White also played for UT-Dallas from 2005-08 and was a two-time (2007 & 2008) ASC Offensive Player of the Year and made the NSCAA All-Region squad both years. White was a 2014 UTD Hall of Honor inductee. Following his super collegiate career, he played for the DFW Tornados, a Premier Development League, from 2007-10.

Kevin graduated with his Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from UT Dallas. For his MAIS final project, DALLAS-WHITE COGNITIVE AND VISUOSPATIAL EXAM STUDY, Kevin created a tool that aimed to help assess the cognitive function of those who have suffered from a concussion, specifically to determine if they are under-reporting or exaggerating symptoms in the weeks following their injury. His interest in this topic came from his own background in athletics as well as increasing public attention to the short- and long-term impact of traumatic brain injury in children and adults who play recreational, collegiate, and professional sports.

Congratulations on your new position Kevin!

Student Spotlight: Danna Blumenau

November 15, 2021

Danna Blumenau is a serial entrepreneur and curator of new ideas with a special interest in energy. Danna has a bachelor’s degree in Art and Technology from the University of Texas at Dallas and is currently working on a master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies focusing on the intersection of energy, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Danna is the President of Blue Mesa Minerals, which she uses as a platform to teach mineral owners how to maximize their mineral rights. As stewards of the nation’s energy resources, mineral owners and landowners need knowledge and guidance to maximize their energy resources for their benefit as well as the benefit of society as a whole. Using her background in Art & Technology combined with her knowledge of the energy industry, Danna publishes educational content regarding all aspects of mineral ownership.

Background: I grew up in Los Alamos, NM, in the shadow of the pioneers of nuclear technology. With a legacy of innovation and secrecy, my peers and I were the children of top engineers and doctors who never talked about their work at the Department of Energy national laboratory but were passionate about science and emerging technology. By grade school, I knew which canyons were off-limits due to environmental contamination and which were protected by armed guards who shot first and asked questions later. This remote and secretive town was located in the high desert mountains, surrounded by the ruins of Native American civilizations. The nearby Pueblo and Navajo tribes continue to live in harmony with nature, and we adopted many of their sustainable customs: adobe houses that kept us cool during the arid July days, passive solar heating in the winter, water conservation through xeriscaping and composting to grow vegetables in the sandy soil. Sustainability was a way of life for us long before anyone heard of the controversy of climate change. The juxtaposition of nuclear energy innovation and sustainable living profoundly affected me and led to a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship and sustainability.

What Led You to Pursue a Master’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies?

I am a non-traditional student, and I did not want to follow a pre-defined degree plan. Instead, I wanted to carve my own path and study energy, sustainability, and entrepreneurship interdisciplinary. The MAIS program gave me the flexibility to follow my passion and the skills to solve today’s complex, interconnected problems.

Why Is an Interdisciplinary Approach Important?

The rapid shift from the post-Industrial Revolution to the Digital Age has created an interrelated global society with increasingly complex and interconnected problems. Solving these problems requires working with multiple cultures and forms of knowledge, transcending the confines of single disciplines. This new approach to problem-solving requires not only disciplinary expertise but interdisciplinary expertise.

Academic Advisor Spotlight: Sydney Higar

August 10, 2021

Sydney Higar is an academic advisor for the School of Interdisciplinary Studies at UT Dallas. We asked her a few questions about her career at UTD and to share a fun fact. Here is what she said:

What is your favorite part about your job?

“I love talking to students and learning what makes them excited about their majors!! Hearing a student tell me what they’re learning – even if it’s a topic I’ve never studied myself – and knowing that it’s something they love is so much fun!”

What is your favorite thing about UTD?

“I love how diverse the students are. Having so many different backgrounds, countries of origin, interests, and experiences around us all the time gives us such a great opportunity to learn from each other and grow into more empathetic, knowledgeable people!”

What is the best advice you can give to our IS students?

“The same advice my college band director gave me the first week of freshman year: There’s more to college than just classes, so make sure you give yourself time to make friends, join clubs, sleep occasionally, and eat something green that isn’t a Skittle. Make good grades, and make good memories!”

What is a fun fact about you?

“I was briefly the lead singer for a rock band that technically toured internationally, since we played a gig in Mexico. We did covers of classic rock and Mexican rock songs! I also have three cats named Berlioz, Poe, and Adler, and they’re all goblins and I love them.”

Sydney primarily advises Healthcare Students who are pursuing a degree in the School of Interdisciplinary Studies. For more advising information visit the Advisors page.

Internship Spotlight: Monica Dechow

August 2, 2021

This Summer semester we are spotlighting Monica Dechow, who is currently working towards a BA in IS and is an internship student. Here is what she shared with us about her experience as an internship student:

“I would highly encourage students to participate in either doing an independent study or internship. This experience allowed for me to grow and dig deeper in my field of study related to Gender Studies and Psychology. I was able to find a topic that I was curious about and unique and research on gender specific care related to substance use disorder. I feel like this experience has helped me grow in my understanding not only personally but professionally. I had the opportunity to share my work as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist and dive deeper into the topic of substance use disorder. The bonus was that I earned credit but beyond that I gained insight and further knowledge”

Learn more about our Interdisciplinary Studies internships.

Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Alexey Root

June 28, 2021

Dr. Alexey Root is a Lecturer and Advisor for the Chess online courses, ED 4358 and ED 4359, at the school of Interdisciplinary Studies at UTD, which are offered every semester. This Spring, she was awarded a $1,000 Eade Foundation’s 2021 Arthur Award for Chess Excellence. She appeared as a special guest on “The Chess Files: The Answers are Out There” on Eade Foundation’s YouTube channel. Dr. Root has also been awarded a $300 2021 Undergraduate Research Scholar Award to supervise student award winner Emil Stefanov.

Her upcoming book, United States Women’s Chess Champions, has been accepted for publication by McFarland and should be published approximately in August 2022. This will be her eight book.

See more on her recent publications.

Read more about her Chess online courses.

Longtime TDC Faculty Member Dr. Angela McNulty Passes Away Unexpectedly

June 16, 2021

Dr. Angela McNulty, associate professor of instruction in the School of Interdisciplinary Studies Teacher Development Center, died on May 9.

McNulty served as an instructor for 20 years and supervised student teachers in area school districts. She joined the University in 2001 after teaching at Texas A&M University-Commerce in Commerce, Texas, where she received her EdD.

The veteran teacher became a college instructor after serving as a classroom teacher in school districts in Mesquite, Dallas and Monroe, Louisiana. In 2001, she joined the Teacher Development Center, where she taught classes and supervised student teachers in Richardson, Plano, Garland, Mesquite and Carrollton-Farmers Branch.

At UT Dallas, McNulty taught educational psychology, reading, art, music, and physical development and served on the Discipline Committee, Committee on Effective Teaching, Academic Council, Academic Senate, and the IS Teaching Award Committee. Additionally, she was a long-time member of Delta Sigma Theta.

“I’m going to miss her always sunny attitude and persona,” said Dr. Barbara A. Ashmore, assistant director of the Teacher Development Center. “Angela’s dedication to her profession, teaching, as well as caring about her students sets a high bar for all of us. She was a special person who shared her wisdom generously with us all. ”

McNulty is survived by her husband, two children, and her parents to whom she was a caregiver.

TDC Assistant Director and Recruiter Retires After 11 Years at UT Dallas

June 10, 2021

Congratulations to Laurie Pollock who is retiring after 11 years at UT Dallas and 26 years in the field of education. Prior to UT Dallas, Laurie taught in Frisco Independent School District. At UTD, she worked as the assistant director and recruiter at the School of Interdisciplinary Studies Teacher Development Center. “I will greatly miss my officemates, colleagues and our fantastic students,” she said, “being in the classroom and with students is what brings me the most joy.”

Kelly Kaar, who is an administrative assistant at the School of Management, worked previously with Laurie at the Teacher Development Center. “I used to go to the community colleges doing recruitments. Laurie was ever the teacher when chatting with potential students. I learned just as much as the students did while we engaged in conversations about becoming a teacher through the Teacher Development program at UTD.” Kelly shared.

“I wish my very long-time colleague and partner-in-”mischief” nothing but the very best as she and Clark embark on their retirement adventure. I miss you already. Travel safe. Stay healthy and keep in touch. Love and hugs.” said Dr. Barbara Ashmore, coordinator for student teaching.

Ginger DeWeese, administrative assistant at the Teacher Development Center, shared her experience on working with Laurie. “She’s made work so much fun! She’s positive and upbeat and fun to be around. Everyone in this office works well together. We laugh, joke, tease etc. We talk to each other about our families at home, get advice/recommendations and genuinely enjoy being together. This office is a family, and it feels like our sister is leaving. I’m going to miss seeing her walk in with a smile on her face and a cheerful ‘good morning’. Our students love her. She’s caring and compassionate while also having high expectations and holding them accountable.”

Ginger shared that Professor Scott Cotton stopped by their office to say goodbye and said that Laurie made meetings relevant and enjoyable.

We want to thank Laurie for her impact and contribution to UT Dallas and wish her well on her next adventure.

Feminine Noir?: Rereading American Women’s Crime Fiction of the Cold War

June 3, 2021

Dr. Erin Smith, professor of American Studies at the School of Interdisciplinary Studies, received an $8,000 HEArts seed grant from the Office of Sponsored Projects at UT Dallas. She was also awarded a fellowship from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Both of these grants will help fund her book project on American women’s Cold-War crime fiction. A summary of the project can be found here.

This spring she had an article published in Clues: A Journal of Detection, that compares a Cold-War crime novel to contemporary domestic noir. The article, Dangerously Good Women: The Female Criminal in Bunny Lake Is Missing (1957) and Contemporary Domestic Noir, can be read in Clues 39.1 (2021).

To read more about Dr. Smith and her publications, visit her homepage.

The American Studies Collaborative Solitude Project, in collaboration with iWeek

Join the Department of American Studies session to learn how COVID-19 has impacted the UTD international student community. The historic significance of the COVID-19 pandemic has rendered many of us hesitant to share the stories of our own experiences. Amidst hardship and tragedy on a global scale, we worry that our narratives are trivial, insignificant, or frivolous.

We look forward to sharing these works with the wider UTD international student community on April 6th, 2021 from 12:00pm to 1:00pm via TEAMS as part of the i-Week celebration.

Submission deadline is Thursday, April 1, 2021 at 11:59PM.

For any questions or comments, please contact Dr. Larissa Werhnyak, Program Head for American Studies, by emailing her assistant, Aurora Becerra at Aurora.Becerra@utdallas.edu.

American Studies Presents: Virtual Fall Film Festival

Join the American Studies (AMS) Program and the School of Interdisciplinary Studies for our first Virtual Fall Film Festival!

Featuring: A Comparison between Miracle(2004) and Red Army (2014)

The film Miracle illustrates how American film portrays the role of sport in international conflict (specifically Cold War geopolitics). The film Red Army illustrates the pivotal 1980 Winter Olympics from the Russian perspective. It’s highly informative and entertaining.

Discussion and Q&A after the film with our AMS Professors.
Date: Thursday, November 12th, 2020
Time: 2:00PM – 7:00PM

Please note a change in the viewing procedures for our final films. See below.

We will screen the film Miracle via a Netflix Watch Party at 2:00 PM; the link to join will be emailed 15 minutes prior to the showing.
Please note: an active Netflix account is required to participate. (Miracle is also available through Amazon Prime.)
What is a Netflix Watch Party? Read about it here: https://www.netflixparty.com/
At approximately 4:15 PM, we will begin the screening of Red Army, with the discussion to follow. Access will be via the Teams link provided below.

We appreciate your flexibility as we navigate these challenges. If you are unable to participate in the entire event due to schedule conflicts or technological impediments, you are welcome join as you are able!

Where Are They Now? The McDermott Scholars Class of 2001

August 14, 2020

Many members of the first class of McDermott Scholars have gone on to earn the highest degrees in their fields and have taken their place as leaders in health care, law, government, science, the arts and academia. They include attorneys, academic researchers, scientists, a pastor and two professors at UT Dallas. Here’s what they are doing now.

Kiss and Make Up, or Not? Researchers Analyze Post-Conflict Behaviors

May 21, 2020

A team led by Dr. Karen Prager, professor of interdisciplinary studies and psychology, identified four broad categories of post-conflict behavior and found that actively repairing the relationship was most effective, while avoidance was most detrimental. Read more about this trio of studies via her article Kiss and Make Up, or Not? Researchers Analyze Post-Conflict Behaviors.

Myths and Unknowns About Chess and the Contenders for the World Chess Championship

November 9, 2018

Alexey W. Root, Interdisciplinary Studies Lecturer, discusses the myths and unknowns about the world chess championship contenders and the game of chess.

Read more about chess and its myths here.

Veterans Day: Jennifer Hudson Reflects on the First WWII POW to Return to Dallas

November 12, 2018

Jennifer Hudson, Interdisciplinary Studies Lecturer, states in an article written for The Dallas Morning News that “remembering someone is what keeps them alive.” Hudson’s article discusses her grandfather’s experiences while being a prisoner of war and the first of which to return to Dallas alive. Read more about Hudon’s grandfather and his experiences here.

Academic Bridge Program Puts Students on Path to Success at UT Dallas

Aug. 9, 2018

Academic Bridge provides services including tutoring, mentoring, housing and financial assistance to students from underrepresented communities. Students start courses in the summer as part of the program, which is supported by funds from the Texas Legislature, the University and private donations.

After a month in the program, several of the 30 freshman in this year’s group said they learned new time-management skills and study habits that helped them with the faster pace of college courses. Read more about the Academic Bridge Program.

Algebra Tutoring Adds to the Fun for Campers at Kids’ University

July 9, 2018

At Kids’ University, students take time out from robotics, science and arts activities to work with tutors on a subject you don’t see on the schedule at many summer camps: algebra.

Algebra tutoring is a critical part of the equation at the camp, which serves children ages 4 to 14 living in area homeless shelters and is hosted by UT Dallas and the Dallas nonprofit Rainbow Days. Homeless children often fall at least one grade level behind due to frequent moves and school transfers, Dr. George Fair, vice president for diversity and community engagement and dean of the School of Interdisciplinary Studies. Read more about Kids’ University and algebra.

Graduate Puts Growing Interest in Sustainability to Work at Dallas Zoo

June 21, 2018

Aasya Peera BA’18 in Interdisciplinary Studies, put her passion for sustainability to work this spring, serving as an environmental services intern with the Dallas Zoo. Peera helped the zoo’s six divisions select and implement sustainability projects such as reducing energy consumption, minimizing chemical use and increasing educational awareness. Read more about Aasya Peera.

Kids University

There are over 1,000 children in the Dallas area that are currently in homeless situations. At UT-Dallas, the School of Interdisciplinary Studies in partnership with Rainbow Days, a Dallas non-profit, have come together to teach them to dream big and help show them their potential. See the full story and video via WFAA.

Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Teaching Award 2017-2018

The School of Interdisciplinary Studies recognized Dr. Kathleen Byrnes for her outstanding teaching and mentoring of students during the 2017-2018 year. Dr. Byrnes is not only an instructor for the rapidly growing Healthcare Studies major, but she is also the Program Head. Dr. Jillian Duquaine-Watson and Dr. E. Lynn Winstead were the runner ups for earning the Interdisciplinary Studies Outstanding Teaching Award 2017-2018.