Linxiao Fan
About Me
I’m a Psychology and Sociology major at Skidmore College who loves cats, food, and traveling. For my academic interest, I like exploring why people think, feel, and behave the way they do. I am interested in cultural differences between China and the United States, and how these differences shape people’s values, social expectations, and everyday decision-making.
Through my coursework and research experiences, I’ve worked on projects involving mental health, media exposure, academic performance, and cross-cultural attitudes. All of my experiences help me to understand how social environments influence human behavior.
Why Sociology?
I’m genuinely interested in understanding how people, groups, and social systems shape everyday life. Sociology helps me see the hidden patterns behind behaviors, inequalities, and cultural norms, and it gives me tools to analyze real-world issues more critically. I like that the major connects personal experiences with broader social forces, and it allows me to think about solutions that can create positive change. In the future, I hope to apply sociological perspectives to research, policy, or professional settings by addressing social inequalities and contributing to solutions that promote equity and social well-being. Overall, studying sociology helps me better understand both society and myself.
Why Psychology?
I’m fascinated by how people think, feel, and behave. Psychology helps me understand the reasons behind human actions—from emotions and decision-making to mental health and relationships. I like that the field combines scientific research with real-world applications, allowing me to learn about the mind while also thinking about how to support people in meaningful ways. Studying psychology gives me insight into both myself and others, and it prepares me for a future where I can help improve people’s well-being.