Dr. Steven Osuna
What fears or anxieties did you have about going to college?
When I started at CSULA, I was lucky enough to participate in the Educational Opportunity Program's (EOP) Summer Bridge Program. This summer program, before the start of my first quarter, guided and helped me through any fears and anxieties I had such as fears of failing, not being smart enough, imposter syndrome, or lacking in my educational development. They reminded me that higher education and public universities are meant for all of us, if we choose to attend. It was our human right! This took a lot of pressure from me, knowing that I, like all of you, belong here if we want to be here.
- PhD, Sociology, UCSB
- MA, Sociology, UCSB
- MA, Chicano Studies, CSULA
- BA, Chicano Studies, CSULA
Be excited to be here at CSULB, to learn new ideas and ways of thinking, and meet new people. We are social beings that are part of a society. You should look forward to studying numerous social issues that can lead you to question the world around you and improve it for all of us. The university can be a daunting place, but know that there are many of us here that want to see you succeed in what you chose to study. More importantly, remember that you have communities of support that you can rely on when you need it. You are not alone in this path towards a higher education. You belong here and we are here to "back you up."
I like exercising, especially jogging and hiking. I've ran the L.A. marathon five times. I like reading social science and history books, journal articles, and the news. I love taking care of my indoor plants. I like watching movies, especially horror movies. I spend a lot of time being part of community organizations and activism. I enjoy traveling abroad. I enjoy cooking and eating at delicious restaurants. Most importantly I love listening to music (all kinds especially classic soul, hip hop, cumbias, and classic rock).
- Favorite book: The Wretched of the Earth
- Congas
- Picture of my loved ones
With my Ph.D. I have only worked as a professor, but it has allowed me to travel for research and conferences to Mexico, El Salvador, Peru, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Canada, Spain, and the Philippines.
I study what is called "racial capitalism": how the economic system is racialized in our society and its relationship to immigration, criminalization, and social change. I teach classes in critical criminology, migration and immigration, modern sociological theory, and a study abroad course in Havana, Cuba.
I was born in Downtown Los Angeles, and grew up in Echo Park. My mother migrated from Mexico and my father from El Salvador. I only grew up with my mother, who raised my brother and I with a domestic worker salary. I am proud of this background since its made me who I am today. I look forward to meeting all of you.
