Alicia Smith

Major: sociology

Minors: African-American studies, religion

My name is Alicia, and I am a senior sociology major from East Lansing, Michigan. I am also minoring in African American studies and religion, so if you are interested in any of those fields I’d love to talk. I am also obsessed with the Food Network, so if you love Guy Fieri and Paula Deen as much as I do, we should definitely chat.

During my first three years at Oberlin, I played on the varsity women’s basketball team, which consumed a lot of time. I also wrote for the sports section of the Oberlin Review and hope to be involved next year as well. In addition, I am participating in the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship program, which is coordinated by the Office of Undergraduate Research. I am at work on a project entitled “Black-White Relations at Oberlin College: Interracial Dating in the 1970s.” The program has helped me realize the excitement of research and my passion for it. Oberlin has a lot of opportunities for student research, and I’d love to help you take advantage of them as well! I’ve also been involved in tutoring local kids, I am a sociology major student representative, and I’ve held jobs at the Science Center food cart and the gym.

One of my main concerns upon my arrival at Oberlin was that everyone would be smarter than me. Some of you may have this same fear, but let me reassure you, you were not admitted randomly—you are smart enough to be here or else they wouldn’t have let you in. Once you begin classes, you will realize this further. Despite the big-time name and reputation, Oberlin is definitely a place where you can succeed if you are willing to work hard.

Short List of Favorites

Local Cuisine: For all of my fellow vegetarians out there who enjoy inexpensive Mexican food, I would highly recommend the vegetarian combination plates at Lupita’s. For about eight dollars, you can pick any two items AND get beans and rice on the side--delicious. I usually get the cheese and vegetable quesadilla and a bean burrito.

Historical figure: Although Barack Obama is only beginning his presidency, he is my favorite (eventual) historical figure. As an African-American and a mixed-race individual, it is extremely inspirational to see someone like me hold the highest position in this country.

Under-advertised Resource at Oberlin: Professors’ office hours. One of the most appealing aspects of a small school such as Oberlin is having access to professors, yet so many people forget that office hours exist. Professors here truly want to help you and get to know you. You are more likely to be confident and successful in a course if you have had one-on-one interaction with the professor.

Favorite First-year Courses

RELG 284: History of the African-American Religious Experience. Professor Miller is one of the most passionate, knowledgeable, and down-to-earth professors I have had. The reading is fascinating and will make you interested in religion if you aren’t already.

SOCI 282: Classical and Contemporary Sociological Theory. This class is primarily for people majoring in sociology, but I think anyone could like it. I have never learned so much in a course. Professor Vujacic makes heavy reading very approachable, appealing and understandable. This is the best class I have taken at Oberlin!