Student Reflections

Why Students Choose Social Justice

  • Real world action and impact
  • Mentorship from faculty and peers
  • Clarity of purpose and direction
  • Preparation for justice-centered careers 

Why Social Justice?

This major transforms students personally, academically, and professionally. Three recent graduates share what Social Justice meant to them.

Robert ’24

“If you want to make real change but do not know where to start, this is the place to begin.”

As one of the first Ethics and Social Change majors (now called Social Justice), Robert found a community that gave him purpose and a way to act on issues he already cared deeply about. Entering college undecided, he was encouraged by a mentor in the Center for Innovation & Change to explore Social Justice as a path toward creating informed and lasting change.

The major helped him understand systemic oppression within political and social systems and gave him the language to talk about those issues in ways that help others see their relevance. Today, he uses this background to support motivated students and faculty as they work through complex social justice challenges in their own communities.

Robert Lopez at graduation

Micah ’25

“You will get as much as you give. You have to be willing to put in the work and be willing to care.”

Micah did not expect to double major, but the community they found in Social Justice shaped who they are today. Through close relationships with faculty and peers, they gained unique experiences, lasting friendships, and a wider worldview. Their future plans include graduate study in a counseling-related field with a strong focus on justice and marginalized identities.

In their current role as a mental health professional at a long-term inpatient facility serving residents on Medicaid or without insurance, Micah uses the framework and skills developed in the major every day. They help residents develop person-centered recovery plans and navigate the same systems that have failed them, drawing on their Social Justice education to advocate effectively and compassionately.

Micah outdoors

Claire ’24

“If you care about community and want to make a positive impact, this is the major for you.”

For Claire, the Social Justice program became a community that shaped her identity and opened new pathways for her future. She entered UE as an Art major but discovered that Social Justice gave her the sense of purpose she had been missing. Immersing herself in the program helped her understand her own identity, build meaningful relationships, and envision activism through art and future work in human resources.

The major also taught her how to have empathetic, grounded conversations across differences. Through tools like Living Room Conversations, she practiced building understanding and common ground, skills she now carries into her professional life.

Clare at Pride Camp

Ready to join a community committed to justice? Explore the Social Justice major.