Why Learn American Studies at K?
As people living within the United States, we may not be fully aware of the nuances of American tradition as it is so ingrained in our daily lives. Concentrating in American Studies at K gives you the chance to critically reflect on the U.S.’s culture, politics and history.
As an American studies student, you will draw upon multiple disciplines—such as history, literature, psychology, sociology, political science, religion, art and music—to learn about the U.S.’s complicated history, culture and government.
You will gain this knowledge through courses in history (e.g., Unsettling Colonial America), literature and fine arts (e.g., American Realisms: U.S. Literature 1865-1914), politics (e.g., United States Foreign Policy), and society (e.g., Religion and Masculinity in the U.S.). In these classes, you will learn how to trace the evolution of American culture and politics over time and uncover how different the American experience is for folks across racial, gender and class lines.
Having a better understanding of American history, culture and systems will give you the context and knowledge to better navigate your life and career within the States. Notably, our alumni have been able to utilize their American Studies concentration throughout their careers as lawyers, historians, writers and policymakers.
What can you do with an American studies concentration?
Below are some of the careers, employers, and graduate schools of our American studies alumni.
Careers
- Legislative Aid
- Attorney
- Librarian
- Campaign Manager
Employers
- Wisconsin Historical Society
- AmeriCorps
- Archives of Michigan
- The New York Times
Graduate Schools
- University of Michigan
- University of Southern California
- Wayne State University
- Harvard University
Meet the Current Departmental Student Advisor
Isabelle Mason
(She/Her)
Major: Political Science and French & Francophone Studies
Minor/Concentrations: History/American Studies
Study Abroad: Strasbourg, France
Best Adjective to Describe You: Passionate
What is the best thing about being part of this department?
The American Studies concentration allows for interdisciplinary learning meaning students interact with other departments in unique and unexpected ways!
How have you taken advantage of the flexible curriculum or experienced breadth in your education?
My major in French & Francophone Studies is simply for pleasure rather than any career aspirations or future education. I am studying French because I enjoy the language, and it provides a break from the rest of my studies! If I attended a school without an open curriculum, this would likely not be possible as I wouldn’t have space in my schedule for a separate major.
What has been your favorite class at K?
My favorite class I have taken at K is a two-way tie between POLS Voting, Campaigns, and Elections with Dr. Justin Berry and FREN Bilingualism with Dr. Larissa Dugas!
What is your Senior Integrated Project [SIP]?
My SIP is in the Political Science department and revolves around elections and campaign strategies. I will be using the 2026 Michigan Gubernatorial Election to study the influence of factors outside of party identification, such as economics and identity, on voting and election results, and how their influence compares to National Presidential elections.
What are your career aspirations/next steps after K?
I am hoping to continue my studies by going to law school and graduate school in political science, specifically American politics, to acquire a J.D. and PhD before pursuing a career in estate or contract law, and/or working on political campaigns.