Rachael Joo

Immigrant America is a compelling and intellectually rich course that examines immigration through historical, social, and political lenses. The class encourages students to move beyond surface-level narratives and engage critically with the complexities of immigration in the United States, including questions of identity, policy, labor, and belonging. The readings are well-curated and span a range of time periods and perspectives, allowing students to see how immigration has shaped—and continues to shape—American society. Discussions play a central role in the course, challenging students to analyze primary sources, question assumptions, and connect historical patterns to contemporary debates. Writing assignments emphasize argumentation and evidence, helping students develop stronger analytical skills. At times, the material can be dense and emotionally challenging, especially when addressing exclusion, discrimination, and inequality. However, these difficulties are part of what makes the course impactful and worthwhile. Overall, Immigrant America is a highly engaging course that deepens students’ understanding of U.S. history while sharpening their ability to think critically about one of the most important and ongoing issues in American society.

Immigrant America is a compelling and intellectually rich course that examines immigration through historical, social, and political lenses. The class encourages students to move beyond surface-level narratives and engage critically with the complexities of immigration in the United States, including questions of identity, policy, la …Read more

Professor Joe is extremely nice and accommodating. She is someone that understands when something comes up and you need extra help or something or the sort. It is clear that she is very passionate about the class.

I really enjoyed the content of the course, and definitely learned a lot from it. However, the class definitely is lecture heavy, and at times I feel as if I am doing the readings just for the sake of doing the readings, and not actually for the sake of learning. I can tell that the professor is passionate about this topic and am grateful for what I have learned, it just can be a bit lethargic.

I really enjoyed the content of the course, and definitely learned a lot from it. However, the class definitely is lecture heavy, and at times I feel as if I am doing the readings just for the sake of doing the readings, and not actually for the sake of learning. I can tell that the professor is passionate about this topic and am gra …Read more