First-Year Seminars

AAAS 177 - Language, Culture, and Identity Across North Africa and the Arab World

This course explores how language shapes identity, power, and culture in the Arab world through the lenses of gender, religion, history, class, and education. It will help you deepen your understanding of MENA cultures and the complex role language plays in everyday life. 

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.
 

Meet the Instructor... Amal El Haimeur

Where you know me from… 

I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of African and African American Studies (AAAS) at KU. I teach Arabic language courses and Arabic studies courses that explore the intersections of language, identity, culture, gender, and history. I also serve as the coordinator for African and African diasporic languages. 

When I was a freshman… 

My freshman experience was both exciting and challenging. I was the first in my family to attend college, and I had to travel away from home to pursue my undergraduate studies. One memorable aspect of that time was that I didn’t own a computer—books were my primary source of knowledge! During my undergraduate years, I also passed the national exam to become a public-school teacher in Morocco. By the time I completed my final year, I was already a certified teacher in the Moroccan public school system. It was a period of growth, determination, and resilience. 

You may be surprised to know…

In addition to teaching, I conduct research on a wide range of topics—including Arabic linguistics, pedagogy, online learning, and the representation of Muslim women. My work brings together language, culture, and gender studies in ways that often surprise people who only know me from the classroom.  

AAAS 177 - Black History in Islam: Race, Enslavement, Resistance, and Identity

How is ‘Blackness’ conceptualized within Islam? How have Black Muslim identities been shaped by history, culture, and resistance? This seminar explores the intersections of race, religion, and justice by centering the experiences of Black Muslims across time and place.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor...Rahina Muazu

Where you know me from…  

You may know me from one of my classes in the Department of African and African American Studies, where I teach courses on Islam, Women and Gender in Muslim societies and Islamic Literature. My classes often explore intersections of religion, culture, and lived experience—especially across Africa and the around the world. 

When you visit my office…

You’ll find a warm and welcoming space where you can speak openly about your academic journey, interests, or questions related to class (and life!). I’m always happy to talk through readings, brainstorm ideas, or help connect you with resources on campus. You might even hear a story or two from West Africa. 

You may be surprised to know…

I’ve studied and taught in several countries—including Germany, Morocco, England, Nigeria, and the United States—and I speak multiple languages: Hausa, Arabic, English, and German. I’m also married and a mother of four. My research focuses on Muslim women’s religious authority and Qur’an recitation in Africa, but I also have a deep love for memoirs, storytelling, and oral traditions. 

AMS 176 - On Drugs: Heroin Users and American Drug Policy

Why should we care about people who use drugs? What can we really do to make a difference? Dive into this eye-opening course that tackles the complexities of drug use, abuse, and the policies that govern them. This isn't just another class—it's a call to action! We'll step out of the classroom and into the community, starting with a visit to local homeless shelters. You'll be at the forefront of creating impactful drug education campaigns and uncovering the deep-seated reasons why every segment of society deserves our empathy and support. 

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor...Margaret Kelley

Where you know me from…

I am a sociologist and Professor in the Department of American Studies at the University of Kansas. I teach AMS176 On Drugs: Heroin Users and American Drug Policy, AMS324 Being Deviant in America, and AMS321 American Gun Culture.  

When I was a freshman…

I was the first in my family to go to college, but my dad started college shortly after me. He got an MBA, and then my mom went for her nursing degree, too! I played volleyball at Wichita State University and lived in the dorms for two years. I was super busy and had lots of amazing memories. I am still in Facebook contact with many of my dorm friends.  

Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

Use the Writing Center!! And make sure you get to know everyone on your dorm floor.  

Currently Streaming…

Law and Order SVU and Alone 

Last Concert I attended… 

1. Taylor Swift 

2. Amos Lee 

Next up this fall are the Indigo Girls, Melissa Etheridge, and The Swell Season.  

AMS 176 - Disability Culture

Dimensions of Disability Culture: Past, Present, & Future invites students to take an intellectual journey across time, space, and academic fields to understand disability on multiple levels. Active learning engaged with a quest for disability justice is at the heart of this mindful course.

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34

Meet the Instructor... Ray Pence

Where you know me from… 

If you are also enrolled in Introduction to American Studies, I may be your teacher. It’s a large lecture course, with 130 students. That’s my major teaching responsibility. Sometimes I teach at Nunemaker Hall, the headquarters for the KU Honors Program. You also may see me at Watson Library, or simply strolling campus, enjoying the weather and positive atmosphere.

When I was a freshman… 

After high school, I didn’t directly enter college. Instead, I worked for my father and enrolled at the University of Wyoming as an English major at the age of 23. Also, I started college in the Spring rather than the Fall semester. So, I was somewhat intimidated at first but quickly became accustomed to student life. Learning to love it was mighty easy!

Currently Streaming… 

The Turning Point, a documentary about the US war in Vietnam (Netflix) and a documentary about Gallaudet University, a university in Washington, D.C. where most students are Deaf sign language users (Apple).

You may be surprised to know… 

I’ve visited Asia several times, with trips to Japan and Vietnam.

ANTH 177 - Pets of the Past 

Animals shape our lives, and we shape theirs. Discover the variability in human-animal interactions and what this tells us about past people while reflecting on our own experiences with animals in our lives. By comparing studies through time and across space about people’s connections to animals, we highlight common features of what it means to be human in an animal world.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Lauren Norman

When I was a freshman…

Although we didn’t call them ‘freshmen’ in Canada, where I got my degrees, my experience was the biggest change I had ever experienced. I came from a small town (3,000) to a university 12x the size! I loved this often-overwhelming diversity of people, places, and events, despite the terrifying newness. One of my favorite daily activities was taking the bus, especially in Victoria, BC, where the ones to the university were double-decker! I loved being able to walk to most places—to get food, to class, to the gym, to the union. We had a movie theatre 2 minutes from my dorm room, which I went to most Tuesdays (student night), and where I first experienced the Rocky Horror Picture Show.  

Pro-Tip for Success at KU... 

Meet your instructors! Although they seem busy, most faculty, graduate students, or researchers on campus LOVE to talk about their work or what got them into their line of research. Ask them about their research and see if you can make connections to your own interests. Take advantage of the wide variety of events and opportunities on campus. It may be one of the only times you live in a walkable, accessible community! 

 Last Concert I attended…

Neko Case at Liberty Hall 

ANTH 177 - Strategies for Survival

How is it that humans survived three million years of natural disasters, war, and plague? The course surveys the ingenuity of our ancestors and explores cultural diversity through the critical lens of human adaptability. 

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Frederic Sellet

Where you know me from…

You will find me on the sixth floor of Fraser Hall. I am an Associate Professor in the Anthropology Department. My training is in anthropological archaeology, and I specialize in the study of some of the earliest sites in North America. You may also encounter me in my lab in Malott Hall, where I practice flintknapping (the art of making stone tools). I regularly teach “Becoming Human” which is a broad survey of human evolution as well as a class on prehistoric art, among many others. 

Pro-Tip for Success at KU... 

 My number one tip is to check and answer your emails. Good communication is a pathway to success. My second piece of advice is to take advantage of office hours. Not only do you get to meet with your professors one on one, but it gives them a chance to get to know you better. 

Currently Streaming…

I recently finished watching Ripley on Netflix. I loved the homage to the film noir era! As you guessed, I am a big sucker for historic dramas or anything that references the bygone age of classic film. So, I followed up by watching The Leopard, also on Netflix, which is a remake of a famous Visconti movie. I almost forgot I am a huge fan of Andor and started the second season! 

ANTH 177 // LAC 177 - Indigenous Traditions of Latin America  

Would you like to learn about the diverse indigenous societies and cultures of Latin America while helping one of the groups recover documented history and culture about themselves? 

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Brent Metz

Where you know me from…

I am the Director of the KU Center for Latin American & Caribbean Studies and Professor of Anthropology.  I teach courses on Indigenous Latin America, Mexican-US relations, introductory cultural anthropology, and graduate-level courses.  I also lead study abroad trips to the Ch’orti’ Maya area of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador and to the Huasteca region of eastern Mexico.  My next study abroad trip will be to Guatemala and Honduras in 2026. 

You may be surprised to know…

I played for the U-Michigan’s ultimate frisbee team, where we won the national championship.  I bike to school 4 ½ miles from home throughout the year except when it’s slippery.  I play basketball and softball regularly to keep my high cholesterol in check.  I garden.  My wife is Mexican, and Spanish is the language spoken in our house with 2 young girls.   

 Last Concert I attended… 

Juanes in Kansas City, is a Colombian singer popular throughout Latin America. 

BIOL 176 - Being Human at KU 

The importance of making connections is vital for success in college, especially for freshman students, as it builds a community of support while transitioning to life at a large institution like KU. Furthermore, a relationship-rich education promotes collaboration and mentorship among university students, staff, and faculty, while contributing to personal growth and wellness. This first-year seminar will promote forming meaningful connections through academic inquiry, individual stories, field trips, and community engagement opportunities to provide students with opportunities to begin making their network of connections for a successful journey at KU.  

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Mark Mort

When I was a freshman…

I am a first-generation college student, and it took me a semester to learn how to navigate a college campus and coursework. During my first few weeks, I felt overwhelmed and kind of lost, but I had faculty who cared and helped me learn how to be a successful student.

Pro-Tip for Success at KU...

The best advice is to go to class and even if it feels uncomfortable, introduce yourself to your professor before/after class or during their office hours. We are here to help you, and we want to get to know you better!

Furry Family Members...

Two adorable cats – Peaches and Bugs – and they are sisters!

CLSX 177 - Crash Course in the Classics  

What makes a text a “classic”? Get to grips with some of the most influential works of Western literature, while thinking about what they meant to the cultures that produced them and how they still resonate with us today.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Georgina White

 When I was a freshman…  

I went to college in the UK (which is where I’m originally from), and it was definitely a culture shock moving from high school to my new (very traditional) university! We had to wear academic robes to take exams, swear an oath not to kindle a flame in the library, and attend formal meals with our professors. Although the changes you’ll face when starting at KU may be a bit different, I’m sure your first few weeks will be similarly challenging and rewarding as you meet a diverse group of people and gain new experiences. 

When you visit my office…

I’m available during office hours, or by appointment, to help you in any way I can. Whether you want to discuss one of the texts we’re reading in the course, have a question about an assignment, want to plan your timetable for next semester, or just want to chat, I’m always happy to talk to you! 

Furry Family Members...

I live with a small Italian greyhound mix, called Hollie, and a toddler, called Imogen. Each of them can be a bit temperamental, but they can usually be appeased with either a snack or a walk! 

COMS 176 – Media Stigmatized Identities   

Ever wonder how the media shapes the way we see certain people? In this course, you'll explore how the media can spread negative stereotypes, learn how to spot and break down those messages, and team up to create a podcast that dives into the stories behind the labels. 

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Alcides Velasquez 

Where you know me from…

I am an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at the University of Kansas. I teach courses in political communication and communication in new media. Also, I serve on several committees, including the Graduate Committee for Communication Studies and the Undergraduate Committee for the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies.

Pro-Tip for Success at KU...

Something that makes a real difference is not just attending class but being present and engaged while you’re there. Preparing ahead of time and paying attention during class can have a huge impact on your performance. Also, knowing how to advocate for yourself can really make a difference between succeeding in a class or not. It’s important to keep your professors informed if you're facing academic or personal challenges that may affect your performance and your potential for success. 

Currently Streaming…

I’ve been watching The Handmaid’s Tale on Hulu and just started One Hundred Years of Solitude on Netflix. 

COMS 176 - Sex, Fate, & Death

Humans can’t get enough of stories about sex, fate, and death—doomed romances, time travel, heroic prophecies, and so on. These stories, and why we love to repeat them, are what make us human: In this class, we’ll watch films, read fiction, and learn skills to interpret them. 

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Robert McDonald

Where you know me from…

In my department, I teach courses on rhetoric and social influence, persuasive speaking, and a course on popular culture. Much like COMS 176: Sex, Fate & Death, in my popular culture course, we watch films and television, discuss them in class, and learn theories to interpret their deeper meanings and what they have to tell us about the world.

When you visit my office…

My office is probably too cluttered with books, but I’ve got a growing Lego collection (Back to the Future, soccer fields, planetary models), and soccer scarves from Europe, and I am constantly brewing a pot of coffee. Please, bring a mug and I would be happy to pour you some!

Currently Streaming…

Andor, a Star Wars show, it’s a show about standing up to dictators, finding courage everywhere, and finding common ground with people from different backgrounds and experiences. It’s a spy show, a political thriller, and a war film all at once. It’s a masterpiece.

ENGL 176 - Trap, Rap, and Hip-Hop: A “Literature” of Protest    

Rapped to the beat of “Whatchu Know About Me” by Glorilla and Sexxy Red:  

“Friend, I’m at KU,

What you know about me?

Big Dr. Ngoh

In that E-N-G (English. English.)

With my students, we be rollin’ 20 deep

And every time I teach them, you know I A-T-E (Ayy! Ayy!)

I’m that teach, yo, learn with me!

We study trap and what it means polit-i-cally! (Write me down!)

Dope teacher, new homies, fun classes, loud music,

Dope students, all smart and we all learnin’! (on gang!) 

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Sarah Ngoh

 When I was a freshman…

I ran out of an algebra class in tears because I thought I was too stupid for college. Turns out I wasn’t, but I still hate math. 

Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

GO TO CLASS. 

Talk to your professors. 

Ask for help. 

Make friends with people who want to see you WIN! 

When you visit my office…

First, my office smells good and is crazy colorful. I usually have candy. I’ll probably want to talk to you about you before we talk about school, ‘cause I’m nosy and I want to know you better. 

You may be surprised to know…

I’m a high school dropout and teen mom who still somehow managed to earn my PhD. Also, I love martial arts movies—the more fighting the better— and zombie shows. 

FREN 177 - Knights, Damsels, & Magical Lands

The Middle Ages were a long time ago... or were they? . In this course, we will explore the fascinating collisions between real and magical worlds in medieval narrative by studying authentic medieval stories and comparing them to more recent cultural products, including film, television, and art.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Christine Bourgeois

FREN 177 - Subversive Sci-Fi 

In a nutshell, this class aims to look at familiar categories of works with new eyes, learning to analyze how the sci-fi shows and movies we watch for entertainment/relaxation can at the same time reflect what is good or troubling in our society and challenge who we are and what we believe. It will focus on the three big questions present in any sci-fi story: What if? If only? If this goes on? 

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Paul Scott

Where you know me from... 

I’m a Professor of French. I study the past (early modern history and culture, including fashion) and the future (as a science-fiction scholar). My hometown is the Lake District in the United Kingdom.

You may be surprised to know…

I’m a zombie specialist and am developing a course on the representation of serial killers in popular culture. I am also learning Korean, which is my seventh language! Also, my high school English teacher was mentored by J.R.R. Tolkien and studied alongside him.

GERM 177 - Marx & Marxism in German Culture & Beyond

Are you tired of thinking like a capitalist? Want to learn more about Marxism and its impact on modern culture? Students of KU unite: this seminar is for you! 

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Ari Linden

 When I was a freshman…

I had two roommates and a corner room in a dorm right across the street from the campus of UC Berkeley. I was really into dorm life and made friends that year with whom I’m still in contact.  

Pro-Tip for Success at KU... 

Prioritize: you will have lots of new commitments and activities; some of you will also be working alongside being a student. It’s important to start learning how to manage your time so that you don’t get overwhelmed.  

 Currently Streaming…

Hacks, The Last of Us, and The Rehearsal 

HA 176 - Declaring Independence: Art, Culture, and the American Revolution

What ideas do we have about the American Revolution based on what we have learned in school or pop culture? How closely do these founding myths relate to the actual politics and culture of this momentous period in US history? In this class we will take a deep dive into images and objects made during the time of the Revolution to gain fresh insight into the people, events, and social issues that shaped the foundation of the nation.

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Emily Casey

HIST 176 - History of Gaming  

Do you enjoy games and gaming? Ever wonder how games became such a dominant part of modern American culture? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then this course is for you! 

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Sean Seyer

When I was a freshman… 

 To be honest, my freshman year was a blur! I just remember things being extremely hectic, and it took some time to adjust to university life. 

When you visit my office…

 You’ll see a wall of books on aviation and gaming, an abundance of art, various models that I’ve built, my tabletop wargaming trophies, and a Pong cocktail cabinet where impromptu games of Warlords with students have been known to occur! 

You may be surprised to know…

I have eight tattoos (they can be very addictive!) 

HIST 177 - Nationalism, Communism, Capitalism: History of Modern Poland 

Can you imagine living through World War II as the German Army and Red Army passed through and occupied your home more than once? Or what would it have been like to change your political and economic system in the course of a few months? How would this affect your culture, and how would your culture shape your response?

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Nathan Wood

Where you know me from…

I’m an Associate Professor in the Department of History. I teach courses in Eastern European History, the history of technology, the history of WWI, and nationalism studies. I also serve as the Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of History. 

When you visit my office…

When you come to see me in my office, you’ll see a lot of books, some posters, and maps on the walls, and a great view of the Wakarusa River Valley to the south. More importantly, we’ll have the chance to talk about the class and your studies. 

You may be surprised to know…

You might notice a bike in my office. I'm a dedicated cyclist, enjoying riding not only for commuting but also for exercise, adventure, and community. I ride on roads, gravel, and mountain bike trails in the area. Also, I am an avid birder. I love being outdoors and would be happy to share tips on places where you can experience nature in and around Lawrence.

ISP 176 – Exploring American Indian Cultures through HULU/FXs Reservation Dogs  

This course will use the HULU/FX show "Reservation Dogs" to deepen students' understanding of American Indian cultures, histories, and ongoing perseverance as peoples and Nations in the U.S.  

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Melissa Peterson

Where you know me from…  

I am the Director of the Hawk Link office. You might have met me or my team at orientation or engaged with us during Jayhawk JumpStart. I also taught an ISP 504 course that prepared undergraduate students for an interdisciplinary graduate program like the Indigenous Studies Program. 

Pro-Tip for Success at KU... 

Learn the systems at KU, there are a lot, but they help support you. I hate to say it, but check your email and unsubscribe from junk mail so you do not miss an important email from me, another faculty, or a support services office that is here to help you.  

 Furry Family Members...

 JJ is our standard Aussie, Opal and Minnie are our mini-Aussie’s. They shed a lot but are cuties. JJ is the best dog ever, he is such a lover.  

ITAL 177 - That's Amore: Fragments of a Discourse on Love

Investigate love as a mysterious, pleasant, and deceitful subject. Meet Dante’s lustful souls in the inferno, debate Boccaccio’s bawdy tales from the Middle Ages, and discuss contemporary dating with the viral story Cat Person.  

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Patrizio Ceccagnoli

Where you know me from… 

I normally teach in the Italian Program.  You might have met me in Hell, Dante’s Inferno. 

When I was a freshman in college… 

I was in Italy. I was a student of classics in my hometown, Perugia. 

You may be surprised to know… 

I am a decent tennis player. 

Last Concert I attended… 

Lawrence Brownlee’s concert at the LIED Center.  Brownlee is an American operatic tenor. 

JWSH 177 - Life, Death, and Afterlife in Modern Israel's Society   

Dive into a journey with Dr. Rami Zeedan to discover how people in Israel think about life, death, and what comes after. We'll check out how different social groups in Israel, from many backgrounds and beliefs, see these big questions and how they affect their identity. Get ready to explore cool ideas like reincarnation or Gilgul in a way that connects to everyday life.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Rami Zeedan

Where you know me from…

I am an Associate Professor of Israel Studies in the Jewish Studies Program, and I have been at KU since 2018. I primarily teach Israeli history, politics, and society.

When I was a freshman…

I was born and raised in an ethnoreligious minority in northern Israel, and I was the first person in my extended family to attend college. I completed a double major BA in Statistics and Israel Studies at the University of Haifa in 1999. During my undergraduate studies, I also studied abroad in Jordan.

You may be surprised to know…

Since studying abroad in Jordan during my undergraduate years, my hobby has been traveling the world and exploring new places, people, and cultures. So far, I have visited 26 countries on five continents. In addition to my native country, Israel, and my current home in Kansas, I have lived in Germany and two other U.S. states.

LA&S 176 - Creativity and Mindset in American Culture

Explore how America's rich cultural diversity fuels your creativity. Through immersive collaborative projects, engaging off-campus explorations, and deep engagement with storytelling in film, literature, and music, you will gain insights into how diverse cultural backgrounds shape innovative thinking. You will uncover unique perspectives and forge innovative solutions for real-world challenges in our interconnected world. 

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Meg Kumin

Where you know me from…

LA&S 176 Creativity and Mindset in American Culture, HNRS 190 The Creative Mindset, and I am also a staff photographer for the University of Kansas. 

 When I was a freshman…

I did very poorly and almost dropped out.  

 When you visit my office… 

Being a university photographer, my schedule can be unpredictable, and I'm often away from my desk. That said, I’ll always make time for you. I’m happy to meet anytime, anywhere. Just send me an email and we’ll find a time that works. 

 You may be surprised to know…

We own a 1967 Volkswagen Beetle.  It is two-toned baby blue and white, with a wood roof rack.  

LA&S 176 - The Academic Lore of Taylor Swift

This course studies US culture through the lens of Taylor Swift. It examines the arc of her catalog of music and what it says and depicts about US culture through the lenses of gender, economics, journalism, and other perspectives, The course walks through examples of Taylor Swift's best and biggest pop culture moments using an actively critical lens to try to interpret the meaning of the culture around us in US society. 

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Misty Heggeness

LAC 177 - Native Americans Crossing Borders

Little is known about the indigenous peoples migrating to the U.S. from Latin America. Students will explore Indigenous world views, attend a local pow-wow at Haskell Indian Nations University, and receive United Nations certificates on climate change and human rights after completing two short UN e-courses.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Laura Herlihy

LAC 177 // SPAN 177 - Latin American Sci-Fi

Hop aboard for a wild Latin American Sci-Fi adventure—robots, time travel, and zero-long lectures. Just pure fun, creativity, and mind-blowing stories!

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Miguel Angel Albujar Escuredo 

 Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

Get involved in as many activities as you can during your first year of college. It’s a great way to meet a diverse group of people and become familiar with the many resources available to you. In the years to come—and now I say this in full “grandpa tale” mode—I assure you: the long-term benefits will be significant. 

When you visit my office…

If you visit me during my office hours: 

1. You'll have the chance to talk with another human being (I’m 100% certified not to be a robot). 
2. We can discuss your progress in my courses. 
3. You’re welcome to ask about resources available at KU. 
4. We can engage in a serious debate about who’s the cheekiest robot: HAL or Johnny 5. 
5. We can talk about any other topic you have in mind—I'm very open-minded... except when it comes to soccer. There’s only one GOAT, and that’s Messi. 
6.  

You may be surprised to know…

You might be surprised to hear it—especially now that I’m “ancient”—but I played basketball in college. Not in Barcelona, though, but for Trinity College Dublin when I lived in Ireland! 

LING 176 - Trans Linguistics: Towards Linguistic Justice

What does it mean to do language work that is rooted in justice? This course works to answer this question by doing linguistics within an emerging framework, connecting to contemporary experiences of gender in the U.S.  

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Phil Duncan

 Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

Find community. And help build community. There are so many awesome people and groups/orgs here, both at KU and in Lawrence. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or if you need help. Being and feeling supported is important – surround yourself with people who support you, and do what you can to support others. Be engaged. Oh, and go to class. 😊 

When you visit my office…

I hope you feel a sense of welcome and belonging. You can drop by whenever, even if it’s not during my scheduled office hours. A lot of important stuff happens in conversation, so I really appreciate opportunities to meet with students. 

You may be surprised to know…

I started out as an art major in college. (My maternal grandmother was a professional artist.) 

MUS 177 - Opera and Politics in Central and Eastern Europe

Opera often leaves us puzzled. Why does a prince faint instead of fighting the dragon chasing him? Why would a peasant girl happily agree to marry a man who sold her hand to someone else? Yet these puzzling tales—brought to life through powerful music—have captivated generations. In this course, we explore how various national and ethnic groups in Central and Eastern Europe have embraced these stories as their own.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Martin Nedbal, 

When I was a freshman…

I was the first in my family to attend college and did so on a different continent! My freshman year was overwhelming, as I moved from my small Czech hometown of Valašské Meziříčí to the United States. I struggled with the English language and adapting to a completely different way of life, but I was also thrilled by the American college experience. Coming from an educational system focused on memorizing dictated facts, I found it incredibly refreshing to participate in seminars and think critically about subjects I cared about.  

Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and ask for help!  

Last Concert I attended... 

I attend concerts all the time—I absolutely love live music, especially classical performances. For me, concerts are not just a passion but also part of my work.  

POLS 177 - Geopolitics of East Asia  

Curious about what's really going on in East Asia? This seminar dives into today’s biggest foreign policy challenges – from the U.S.-China trade war to the crisis in the Taiwan Strait – through interactive simulations and debates. You’ll also get connected with valuable campus resources—from study-abroad and language programs to career-focused opportunities—that can help you turn your curiosity about East Asia into a career pathway.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Jack Zhang

Where you know me from…

I am an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science and associate director for the Center for East Asian Studies at the University of Kansas (KU). I am also the director of the KU Trade War Lab. My research explores the political economy of trade and conflict in American and Chinese foreign policy.

When I was a freshman…

I received my B.A. from Duke University. Before getting my Ph.D.

You may be surprised to know…

I am a Public Intellectual Fellow with the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations. My research and commentary on the trade war have appeared in the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, NPR, Bloomberg, Forbes, Foreign Policy, South China Morning Post, Straits Times, CGTN, Arirang TV, Nikkei Asia, Sinica Podcast, among others. You can follow me on X @HanFeiTzu or Blue Sky @TradeWarLab.

PORT 177 // GIST 177 - Amazon: Environmental Issues in Literature and Film

This seminar will explore environmental issues in the Amazon through the lens of literature and film. How do narratives of place shape our understanding of our relationship to the natural world? What role do novels and films play in bridging local realities to a broader global context?

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Luciano Tosta 

REL 176 // HIST 176 - Forging Scriptures in US Religious Practice 1890-1930

“Sacred Scriptures” seem to be everywhere in the U.S. right now—in worship places, educational classrooms, and even political spaces. But what ARE they...Do we even know? In this class, we’ll use documents, digital humanities, journal entries, active discussion, and reflection to wrestle with this complex question together, drawing case studies from one of the most religiously wild periods in U.S. history!

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Rachel Schwaller 

Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

To be successful at KU, I would suggest doing what you love. Don’t get bogged down with career, declaring majors/minors, and checking all the boxes. Just enjoy your classes, explore, be curious, and try new things!  

When you visit my office…

I keep candy and tea in my office, so expect to be offered a piece of candy or a cup of tea. I’m interested in getting to know students, so feel free to drop by just to chat. You can also expect me to listen. If you want/need to talk about the class, know that I’m here to listen to your thoughts and ideas and help you to expand on them and express them in ways that will make you successful in the classroom.  

You may be surprised to know…

Throughout my college and first graduate program, I learned seven dead languages from the Ancient Near East, spent three archaeological dig seasons in Egypt, one season in Turkey, and did underwater paleontology (scuba-diving) in Florida hot springs!  

REL 177 - Learning Across Cultures: Muslims from Stereotype to Personhood

With a focus on Islam, students will see how the study of religion can help us learn to engage in dialogue and communication across cultures. Special emphasis will be placed on fostering cultural competence, empathy, and dialogue amid religious differences.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Jackie Brinton

SPAN 176 - How Languages are Learned & the Value of Multilingualism

Have you always wanted to speak another language but felt lost about how to achieve this goal? Would you like to connect with other language learners and speakers of languages other than English on campus? This course will provide you with the knowledge, support, and opportunities to flourish in multilingual communities as a lifelong language learner.

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Amy Rossomondo

When I was a freshman…

My freshman experience was very overwhelming, before it became amazing. I attended a rural, public high school that did not challenge or prepare me academically for my first year of college, far from home. I went from being a big fish in a tiny pond to being a tiny, lost fish in an ocean full of very prepared big fish. Once I admitted my insecurities, I was able to connect with the support I needed to flourish academically (though I highly doubt that any of my freshman-year professors would have guessed that I would end up being a professor myself).   

When you visit my office…

When you visit my office, you will find me ready to help you in any way you need. You are welcome to stop by but shooting me an email to let me know that you are coming will help me be able to give you my full attention. I have been at KU for longer than many first-year students have been alive (wild)… Please count on me as a resource to help you get the most out of your time here! 

You may be surprised to know…

My whole family will be Jayhawks this year. My son is starting KU law, my daughter will be a first-year student living on campus, and my husband is also a professor. Rock chalk! 

SPAN 177 - The World In, Of, and Through Videogames

This course will explore the ways in which video games can expand our worldview. From the games themselves to the studios that make them and the supply chain that manufactures them, this class will take us on a journey to every inhabited continent to better understand the global impact of video games.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Sean Gullickson

 Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

Talk to your instructors! They want to get to know you. And remember that sleep is a crucial part of the process to learn and encode memories.  

When you visit my office…

I will be happy to see you! I’ll ask you how life is going in general before I try and help out with whatever brought you by. I may be listening to music (my tastes there are questionable) and may try to show you pictures of my children and/or dog.  

Currently Streaming…

Dropout – especially the shows “Game Changer” and “Make Some Noise.” 

 Last Concert I attended… 

The Mountain Goats (as featured in this year’s common read!) 

UNIV 176 - KU Traditions & Transformations

In this course you will explore KU’s past, present, and future through the students, staff, and faculty that shaped it. Learn about KU's traditions, from the ones that stood the test of time (like the Rock Chalk chant!) to the ones that didn't (like freshmen beanies).

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

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Meet the Instructor... Rachel K. Davis

Hometown: 

St. Louis, MO

When I was a freshman... 

I was excited and terrified! I was ready for college classes, but less ready for living on my own and attending a college none of my friends had chosen.  

Pro-tip for success at KU...

Ask for help. Lots of students are scared or embarrassed to ask for help, but I promise no one thinks less of you for it. KU faculty and staff want you to feel welcome and supported.

Currently streaming...

I watch too many shows, but I especially love Hacks, Severance, The Last of Us, Yellowjackets, and Saturday Night Live.

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Meet the Instructor... Kate Kemper

When I was a Freshman…  

 I was in Des Moines, Iowa at Drake University. I studied International Relations and Environmental Policy! 

Pro-Tip for Success at KU...

Find a time management strategy that works for you. Whether it’s a software like Notion, a paper planner, or your Google calendar, use a system that you will actually use! 

When you visit my office…  

Be ready to be civically engaged by other members of the CSL team! We’re here to help you identify service opportunities that fit your interests and goals, and can provide some guidance to the voting process for eligible students. 

You may be surprised to know… 

I studied abroad for a semester in India while I was in college! 

Furry Family Members (Or not so furry)… 

My partner and I have two dogs - Kai, a Shiba Inu; and Twyla, an Australian Cattle Dog mix 

UNIV 177 - The Four Elements

Dive into the 2,000-year reign of the four elements theory that unified science, spirituality, and art before chemistry and physics reshaped our understanding of the physical world. Engage with elemental representations at KU Libraries and the Spencer Museum while crafting your own interpretations and discovering why our entertainment still pulses with elemental energy.

Fulfills Global Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Drew Vartia

Pro-Tip for Success at KU...

A mistake I made—and that students still make—is to feel like it’s better or somehow more meaningful to do college alone. The thinking is: “If I need help, should I really be here?” Well, you SHOULD be here, and everyone NEEDS help to succeed. Don’t figure it out too late: Help is a main ingredient in success!

When you visit my office…

I meet students outside my office, like in the Underground, Union, or libraries. Look for my table sign to easily identify me. We can discuss course topics or anything else you like. If you need to talk privately, we can find a suitable spot or set up an appointment in advance. Just send me an email! (vartia@ku.edu)

Furry Family Members...

A kitty named Ebony lives with me. She adopted me as her human in March of 2025. She’s a lover, not a hater. J

WGSS 176 - Pregnancy in Modern Literature

Are you interested in literature by and about women? Or maybe you’re interested in medical history? Do you want to do hands-on research with your professors? If you answered yes to any of these questions, Pregnancy in Modern Literature is the perfect class for you!

Fulfills US Culture Goal of KU Core 34.

Meet the Instructor... Aimee Wilson

Where you know me from…

I’ve taught Introduction to Feminist Theory, Feminist Methods, and World Literature, as well as several graduate-level classes.  

When I was a freshman…

I attended the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. I was a Journalism and Mass Communication major, with a Spanish minor.  

Pro-Tip for Success at KU 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s the best way to understand a subject. If you’re confused by something, a classmate probably is, too. They’ll be glad you asked.