California Sociology Forum ix About the Student Editors Keila Bailey (She/Her) is a first-generation student, having received a BA in sociology while being on the honor roll for two semesters and is honored to now be working on her MA at CSULA. Keila has been working and interning in the service industry for four years, developing a passion for helping reentry organizations such as Ameri-Corps/California Justice Leaders, Project Rebound, and Words Uncaged while paying close attention to the benefits of therapy and healing. Additionally, she volunteers by providing free meals and clothing for the homeless population in her home community. Taryn Bates (She/Her) is in the CSULA MA sociology program, previously achieving her BA in Sociology: Inequalities and Diversity from CSULA in May 2024. As a community-focused sociologist, Taryn is a member of organizations both on and off campus including the Abolition Study Action People’s (ASAP) Collective, the Neurodivergent Collective, and BluesinLA Coalition’s cultural competency consultant. Her research focuses on cross-cultural interactions within blues social partner dance. Taryn has thrived as part of CSF’s student editorial board – first nominated as the Managing Copy Editor for Volume 5, then as a Publication Co-Managing Editor on Volume 6, and honored to now serve as the Student Managing Editor for Volume 7. She enjoys being a supportive resource to her fellow team members in the process of curating each edition. Kayla Bellipanni (She/Her) is a second-year MA student in Anthropology at Cal State LA, focusing on bioarchaeology. Her thesis research examines pathological conditions in ancient human remains. Originally from Colorado, she earned her BA in Anthropology with a minor in Sociology from Metropolitan State University of Denver in 2021, where she was awarded the Charles W. Fisher Award for her exceptional academic achievement, scholarly contributions, and community engagement. Formerly the vice president of the Colorado Archaeological Society, she has garnered multiple awards for her conference presentations on archaeological research papers, for which she served as the primary author. Kayla remains active in both anthropological and sociological academic communities. She is grateful to CSF for the opportunity to keep her sociology skills sharp and looks forward to her forthcoming publication in the journal, a critical review of Brandy Schillace's Death's Summer Coat, which analyzes the sociology of death and grieving. Tenille Blackburn (She/They) is a California State University, Northridge (CSUN) alum with a BA in Sociology, having transferred from Barstow Community College with an AA in Social Science. She continues her academic journey as a graduate student at Cal State LA, with an aim to receive her MA in Sociology in Spring 2025. Her ongoing thesis lies within her primary research interests of identity and labeling, also with a key focus on gender, sexuality, and individuals’ level of interest in civic engagement. It is through her involvement with CSF and on its publication team that she is able to gain new perspectives, while having the opportunity to draw connections between her research interests and her personal enjoyment of listening to music. California Sociology Forum x Spider Canoy (She/Her/Ella) is a Blaxican graduate student in the Sociology Master’s Program at California State University, Los Angeles. Having experienced and survived many hardships throughout her life, Spider is a passionate defender and fighter for underdogs by helping them find ways to speak up for themselves that lead them up and out of oppression. This includes her advocacy for survivors of domestic violence, human and sex trafficking, affordable housing, free healthcare, free education, honest journalism, and freedom of speech. Lorena Escalante (She/Her/Ella) is a first-generation graduate student at California State University, Los Angeles. She is in the process of achieving her MA in Sociology with an estimated graduation date of Fall 2025. Lorena started her academic journey and passion for sociology at Mt. San Antonio College where she earned three AA’s before transferring to California Polytechnic State University earning her BA in Sociology. Lorena’s research interests include immigration/migration, race, ethnicity and identity, as well as romantic and familial relationships. She is currently researching the effects of deportation on romantic relationships for her thesis. It has been an honor and a great learning experience for Lorena to be a part of the CSF Publication Team. Ian Joaquin Esparza (He/Him) is a 2nd year graduate student at California State University, Los Angeles studying sociology. He received his Bachelor of Arts at Californian Polytechnic Pomona in Sociology with an emphasis on Criminology. In association with his fields of studies, he believes that sociology provides an important and much needed role in interpreting issues in modern day society and its contemporary institutions. He is currently working on his master thesis that hopes to give insight on religion’s influence on identity. Ian identifies as a Mexican American Catholic, which his cultural background holds much influence on his own research endeavors. While studying sociology, his emphasis includes theories of identity, sociology of religion, and key sociological concepts such as symbolic interactionism and structural functionalism. His hobbies include watching films, photography, and learning about history. Hilda Gamero (She/Her) is a first-generation graduate student at California State University of Los Angeles with a BA in Sociology and a minor in Criminal Justice. She is now pursuing her Sociology MA. Hilda will be graduating in Spring 2026. Her research interests include criminology, race & ethnicity, and societal behavior changes. She is currently working on her thesis, which focuses on identifying behavioral changes within a crime neighborhood. She is part of the Alpha Kappa Delta and is pleased to be a part of the Public Relations Team at CSF, where she also practiced reviewing work while learning how to strengthen her writing. California Sociology Forum xi Darinka Luciana Garcia (She/Her/Ella) is a first-generation graduate student at CSULA. She is currently pursuing her MA in sociology, a field that allows her to explore the complexities of social behavior and societal structures. With a strong academic focus, Darinka has maintained an impressive 4.0 GPA, showcasing her dedication and hard work throughout her studies. Darinka is engaged in her thesis while balancing her studies with a full-time job as a legal assistant, she demonstrates exceptional time management skills and a strong commitment to her professional development. Her experience in the legal field not only complements her academic background but also prepares her for her next goal: attending law school after graduation. Darinka's commitment to her field is further highlighted by her membership in Alpha Kappa Delta, the international sociology honor society, which reflects her dedication to academic excellence and her passion for sociology. Jalene Garcia-Santamarina (She/Her) is a first-generation graduate student at California State University, Los Angeles. Jalene is estimated to complete her MA in the sociology program in Fall of 2025. Her research interest consists of the formerly incarcerated population and social stigma. She is currently working on her thesis on social workers’ attitudes and experiences towards formerly incarcerated individuals in Los Angeles County. She is grateful for the opportunity she has been given to converse amongst like-minded individuals, grow as a writer, and learn the submission process to a journal by being a part of the CSF team. Jalene has had the privilege of being a part of the Publication Team. Jackeline E. Gomez Diaz (She/Her) is a dedicated and ambitious individual who has successfully balanced her academic pursuits with her role as a full-time stay-at-home mom. A proud transfer student from Rio Hondo College, Jackeline is set to graduate with a BA in Sociology, with an emphasis in Law and Society. Her academic journey has not only deepened her understanding of societal structures and institutions but also instilled in her a commitment to creating meaningful change. Beyond her academic achievements, Jackeline has been an active and engaged member of her college community. As a proud representative of moms pursuing higher education, Jackeline hopes to inspire and empower others who may be facing similar challenges. She has had the opportunity to work with CSF, as part of the Original Content Team. She has really enjoyed working with so many talented individuals. Maria Hernandez (She/Her/Ella) is in her senior year as an undergraduate at California State University, Los Angeles. She is first generation college student and will graduate in May 2025 with a BA in Sociology with an emphasis on Law and Society. Maria intends to continue her education by attending Law School and is passionate about becoming an advocate for those that are unable to stand up for themselves. Being a part of CSF has been a great honor and learning experience. In CSF, she held the role of team leader in the Publication team for Spring. California Sociology Forum xii Angel Jaimes (He/Him) is a graduate student at Cal State LA, pursuing a Master's in Sociology on the thesis track. His research interests include transgender studies, queer theory, feminist methodologies, abolitionist feminisms, emotions, and labor. Angel’s research project explores how transgender workers engage in emotional management and negotiate distinct forms of personal gender expression in relation to cisgender normative workplace role requirements in their service sector jobs. He has served as a teaching and graduate assistant and is a member of the Abolition Study Action People's (ASAP) Collective. During his time with CSF, Angel held the role of Original Content Team Lead and published a book review on Gender Without Identity, a contemporary theoretical and psychoanalytic work exploring the relationships between gender acquisitions and trauma. Victoria López (She/Her) is a first-generation undergraduate senior at California State University, Los Angeles who will graduate cum laude in Spring 2025 with a BA, majoring in general sociology. She transferred from East Los Angeles Community College in 2023 with a Sociology for Transfer AA. Her research interests in sociology are law and society, social justice, and gender inequalities. She joined CSF as an opportunity at enhancing communication skills and to explore the diverse writing that reference sociology and current social issues. At Cal State LA, Victoria is a member of EOP and Project Rebound which empower her as a single mother of two while both working and studying full-time. Sabrina Loya (She/Her) transferred into Sociology at Cal State LA from Fresno City College and is passionate about advocating for teens of color and victims of domestic violence. She joined CSF as an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Now a junior, she actively studies gender issues, focusing on gender socialization, societal expectations, and disparities in social, occupational, and educational domains. She also explores broader gender roles in contemporary society, analyzing how they shape individual experiences. With a strong commitment to social justice, Sabrina seeks career opportunities that allow her to support and empower marginalized communities through research, education, and direct intervention. Her dedication to making a meaningful impact drives her efforts to create lasting change for those in need. Michael Madrilejo (He/Him) is a graduate student at California State University, Los Angeles, aiming to graduate in Fall 2025. His research focuses on the application of social skills training for young adults, emphasizing its necessity as a critical tool for personal and professional development. He currently serves as a Senior Program Specialist for API RISE and is a member of the CSF team. Michael is committed to serving and supporting his community through his work, advocating for meaningful social development initiatives. California Sociology Forum xiii Stephanie Mayahua (She/Her) is a first-generation senior at Cal State LA, set to graduate summa cum laude with a BA in Sociology in Spring 2025. She was offered the opportunity to join the CSF and became an editor for the Student Journal. This role has allowed her to connect with other motivated students, learn important editing skills, and step outside of her comfort zone. She is grateful for the chance to develop her skills and build confidence through these experiences. Annica Meija (She/Her) is an undergraduate senior transfer student at Cal State LA. Annica will be graduating in December of 2025 with a BA in Sociology. This is her first semester in CSF, where she has taken on the role of leader of the Original Content team. She is driven by a passion for education and community. Her main research interests include special education, mental health, and social welfare. Alongside earning her degree, Annica works as a paraprofessional at a high school. Alicia Justice Melich (She/Her) is a Master’s student in Anthropology at California State University, Los Angeles with a focus on Primatology and holds a BA in Biological Anthropology from California State University, Dominguez Hills. Her research centers on primate behavior with a particular interest in decolonizing approaches to the study of primates. She is committed to exploring the intersections of primatology with critical perspectives on the relationship between humans and non-human primates, seeking to challenge traditional frameworks in the field. Through her work, she aims to contribute to a more inclusive and ethically engaged approach to understanding primates in both academic and applied settings. As part of CSF, she reviewed research on human relationships with their pets. She also works as a writing tutor, where she engages with an anti-racist writing framework. Ashliegh B. Norwood (She/Her) is a transfer student from San Jose City College, currently attending California State University, Los Angeles. She earned two AA’s from SJCC in May 2024: an Associate in Arts in Liberal Arts: Social/Behavioral Sciences, and an Associate in Arts- Transfer in Sociology. As a Pathway to Law scholar, Ashliegh is focused on preparing for the LSAT in 2025 with the goal of attending law school. She is on track to graduate from CSULA in the summer of 2025. Her research interests include social justice and family legal studies. California Sociology Forum xiv Elibeth Ochoa Deleon (She/Her) is a first-year graduate student pursuing her masters in sociology at Cal State LA. As a first-generation college graduate, Elibeth is passionate about gender equality, with a particular focus on the disparities in women’s sports. Her research is deeply committed to researching the structural and cultural barriers that hinder the advancement of female athletes. Elibeth’s work explores policy implications, media representation, and institutional inequalities that contribute to the gender gap in sports participation, funding, and professional opportunities. Through academic inquiry and community engagement, she strives to promote equity in athletics and challenge systemic biases within the sports industry. Elibeth plans to contribute to both academic discourse and policy reform, with the goal of fostering a more inclusive and equitable sports environment for women and girls. Shanya A. Olivares Perez (She/Her) is a Cal State LA second-year graduate student expecting to graduate with a Masters in Sociology in May of 2025. She also holds a BA in Anthropology with a minor in Sociology from Cal State Fullerton and a certification in Archaeology, focusing on pre- Hispanic communities in South America and Spain. Her research interests include education, with an emphasis on higher education, educational barriers, and first-generation student experiences. At Cal State LA, she is part of the International Sociology Honors Society, Alpha Kappa Delta, and the PR Lead for the California Sociology Forum. Erik Ortiz (He/Him) is a first-generation undergraduate transfer student at Cal State LA. Erik is entering his senior year and expects to graduate with his BA in Political Science in Fall 2025. He has joined CSF as an opportunity to get more in connection with the sociological aspect of the university, explore connecting interests to his major, and learn more about publishing in journals. He is eager to apply his degree in the immigration field, with a passion for giving back to his community and uplifting other students who share similar experiences. Celia Peña (She/Her) is a sociology undergraduate student at Cal State LA, having transferred from East LA College to pursue her passion for social justice. She brings nearly three years of case management experience working directly with vulnerable populations, including migrant, asylum-seeking, refugee, and LGBTQ+ communities. Celia’s commitment and professional advocacy work are driven by a commitment to help communities targeted by systemic barriers and want to apply equity on both macro and micro levels. She is excited to join the CSF Editorial Board to deepen her skills in editing and writing, which will support her long-term goal of pursuing a PhD and continuing to uplift and empower the communities she serves. California Sociology Forum xv Nicole R. Perez (She/Her) is a graduate student at California State University, Los Angeles currently pursuing her portfolio in the Department of Sociology. Her research highlights sexual behaviors and beliefs outside of committed relationships in young adulthood. She is part of the Alpha Kappa Delta Sociology Honor Society and is honored to work alongside students and faculty in the CSF Editorial Board. Nicole hopes to have her work published by the board in the near future. María Ramírez (She/Her/Ella) is a first-generation undergraduate student. She has completed her AA in Sociology from Mount San Antonio College. She will complete her BA in Spring of 2025 from Cal State LA. Maria is also set to pursue her education and gain her Masters in Sociology. Her research interests consist of social behavioral and mental health on children. Maria is proud of everything she has accomplished after only being the first in her family to graduate from a university. Daniel Roman (He/Him) is an undergraduate student at Cal State LA, majoring in sociology. A member of Project Rebound, Daniel is dedicated to supporting formerly incarcerated individuals in their reentry journey. His research interests include reentry experiences, social inequality, and criminal justice reform. Daniel was recently nominated to join Cal State LA’s chapter of The National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). He is passionate about using his education to advocate for systemic change and help others access higher education and build a better quality of life. Amaya Simental (She/Her/Ella) is a Sociology graduate student pursuing her MA at Cal State LA and planning to graduate in May of 2025. Her research interests are in criminology, recidivism, and reintegration. She is currently working on her portfolio project on the topic of primary systemic, economic, and social factors that contribute to recidivism among nonviolent male offenders. Amaya also had the opportunity to be part of the CSF editorial board, working alongside the Public Relations Team. California Sociology Forum xvi Desiree Denise Suarez (She/Her) is a first-generation undergrad student at Cal State LA. Desiree will graduate with her BA in Sociology in May 2025. Her research interests include issues related to class, race, gender, and economic disparities, and she investigates how culture shapes social behavior and identity. Desiree is a recent transfer student from ELAC. She has her AA in Sociology. She was able to learn from her CSF team and appreciates being able to work on the editorial board for CSF as part of the Original Content team.. She’s thankful for being able to edit volume 7 sociology student journal and excited for the outcome. Nathalie Velasco-Quiroz (She/Her) is a graduate student at CSULA in the Anthropology department that specializes in the Biological/Cultural aspect of Anthropology. She gained her BA in Anthropology with a Minor in Science, Technology and Medicine Studies at CSULA. Her research interests include Medical Anthropology, specifically in the frameworks of Intersectionality and Cultural Competence. She is interested in Japanese Media and its influences in Western culture, particularly in its impact on diverse communities bringing multicultural individuals together. She’s involved in the Japanese Media Arts & Culture Club at CSULA as a member and an officer with the role of Public Representative and Social Media Manager. Her media review is on the human experience as expressed by a Japanese animation show and the lessons that can be learned from it. Abigail Whitenack (She/Her) is a second-year MA student in the Anthropology Department at Cal State LA. Previously, she was a California Community College student and transferred to UC San Diego, where she earned her BA in Anthropology. She now works at UC San Diego in Graduate Admissions and enjoys helping prospective applicants at her home campus. Her research interests include human evolution, paleoanthropology, and the relationships between climate, population history, and cranial traits. She is grateful for the experience gained while participating in CSF as part of the publishing team. Ramona Vega (She/Her) transferred to California State University, Los Angeles in her junior year. She is currently pursuing her BA in Sociology Law and Society option and will graduate cum laude in May 2025. She is grateful to have obtained two simultaneous AAs in both Sociology and Social Justice, as well as a Pathways to Law School certificate while attending Chaffey College. While attending CSULA she has earned a place on the Dean’s list in her 2021–2022 academic year, as well as a recipient of the Service to the Community awarded in her Spring 2023 semester for her work with the Learning Rights Center. She is eager to start the next chapter in her educational journey as she prepares herself in applying for Law school, this Fall with the hopes of starting in Spring 2026, and one day become an attorney of law. California Sociology Forum xvii About the Alumni Advisory Board Darron Michael Cunanan (He/Him) is a lecturer at Cal State LA in the Department of Asian and Asian American Studies. He is also an alumnus of Cal State LA's sociology program. His research interests include pop culture, Asian American issues, and political sociology. On campus, he is a research assistant at Los Angeles Economic Equity Accelerator and Fellowship (LEEAF). At CSF, Darron is a part of the Alumni Advisory Board assisting current student editors. He truly believes in CSF’s efforts in showcasing students’ written work and appreciates the opportunity of working alongside the students and faculty of CSF who work hard to make it happen. Sammy Garcia III (He/Him) is a Sociology, MA graduate student at Cal State LA. He obtained his BA in Sociology and Minor in CLS from Cal State LA in Spring 2023. Sammy’s research interests revolve around music, culture, and storytelling. He is proud to have made two short films on the music of the Chicano and Farmworkers Movement, the latter of which is published on the Museum of Social Justice website for their current exhibit on the Farm Workers Movement. He was part of the editorial team for Spring Semester 2023, returned again in the Fall 2024, and is currently in a mentor capacity for the CSF Alumni Advisory Board (AAB) for the academic year 2024-2025. Marie Rivera (She/Her/Ella) is a collaborator and co-author with faculty members in the Department of Sociology at CSULA, where she recently earned her MA. Her research interests consist of intersectionality, gender & sexuality studies, race & ethnicity, abolition, climate justice, and reproductive justice. As an advocate for perinatal mental health, Marie participated in a documentary and is actively involved in discussions on gender justice. She is passionate about abolition education, organizing with ASAP Collective. Marie acted as Graduate Managing Editor for CSF in the Spring 2023 and Publication Co-Managing Editor for Fall 2023-Spring 2024 and is grateful for the opportunity to continue working with the dedicated student editorial team as a part of the inaugural CSF Alumni Advisory Board. Esai Santana (He/Him) is an alumnus at California State University, Los Angeles who transferred from East Los Angeles College with an AA: Sociology for Transfer and an AA General Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences. Before graduating in Spring 2024 with a BA in Sociology, he joined CSF as an opportunity to connect more with his peers in Sociology, step out of his comfort zone, and take an interest in publishing a journal. His main research interests when it comes to sociology are topics that include inequalities, sexuality, and gender. He also has a passion for playing video games, enjoying the stories they tell through a player and sociological perspective. California Sociology Forum xviii Lauren Whiting (She/They) received their Sociology MA at CSULA in Fall 2024. Their sociological areas of interest span from interactions with and perceptions of the justice system to the relationship between children and parents with disabilities. For her thesis, she quantitatively explores the influence of disabled parents' religiosity and the ability to rely on their children for support. Lauren’s dedication to these topics offered them opportunities to tutor, present conferences, and receive various accolades throughout their academic journey. With a nature for supporting others, participating in CSF through the Alumni Advisory Board offers Lauren the joy of aiding fellow peers in the journey of sharing sociological passions with others. Michael Young (He/Him) is currently working on his M.S. in Rehabilitation Counseling at Cal State LA. He graduated magna cum laude in Spring 2024 with a BA in both Sociology and Psychology, while additionally participating in the Cal State LA Honors College. Michael has utilized his upper education path to explore his special interest regarding students with disabilities within the education system. His achievements include advocacy for students with disabilities within government support systems, presenting at multiple conferences, and being a co-investigator on a research study conducted as an undergraduate thesis under the Honors College which focuses on the experiences of accommodations students with disabilities receive while attending Cal State LA. Michael also serves as the Vice President of the Neurodivergent Collective, a CSI Club. About the Faculty Editors Luoman Bao is an Associate Professor in Sociology whose primary research interests include family dynamics, population aging and health, and quantitative methods. Her work has been published in various venues, including Journal of Gerontology: Social Sciences, Journal of Health and Social Behavior, and Research on Aging. She loves working with students in classrooms and on projects. She is passionate about facilitating students to grow and achieve their full potential. Katie Dingeman is an Associate Professor in Sociology with research interests around migrant rights, reproductive justice, political ecology, and qualitative methods. She has published in a variety of venues, including Social Problems, Feminist Criminology, and the Journal on Migration and Human Security. She loves facilitating student-led projects and enjoys growing as a teacher, scholar, and advocate alongside her students. California Sociology Forum xix Gilbert Garcia is a lecturer in Sociology at California State University, Los Angeles and Associate Faculty at Riverside City College in Riverside, California. He is also on the board of the Social Science Research Instructional Council for the California State University System. His research and teaching interests are in race and ethnic relations with an emphasis on exploring systemic racism in the U.S. He also explores the connection of Media and Technology as Socializing Forces in the development of individuals. He serves as the IT Liaison for CSF. Roseann Giarrusso is Chair and Professor of Sociology with research interests in aging and the life-course, family and intergenerational relations, and quantitative research methods. She has over 50 publications including two co- authored books, many peer-reviewed journal articles (e.g., Journal of Marriage and Family; Journals of Gerontology: Social Science; Journal of Family Issues; and Generations), and numerous chapters in books. She enjoys helping students to realize their academic potential. Every year, Dr. Giarrusso co-authors grant proposals to solicit funds to print copies of CSF and provide stipends to student managing editors. Hyojoung Kim is a Professor of Sociology and Director of the Center for Korean American and Korean Studies in Cal State L.A. His main research and teaching areas include political sociology and race and ethnic studies with special emphasis in Korean and Korean American studies, Quantitative Research Methods and Statistics, Rational Choice, Social Network Analysis and Social Movements. His research has been published in various internationally acclaimed academic journals, including American Sociological Review, American Journal of Sociology, and European Sociological Review. Dr. Kim has edited a few books on Korean Americans and Korea. He founded California Sociology Forum—Student Online Journal of Sociology and served as Editor- in-Chief during 2007~2013. About the Editors