Shengkai Xu
Shengkai Xu's academic interests include immigration, urban history, and critical race theories. His current research focuses on the history of immigration federalization in the late 19th Century, and the role played by cities and local governments. He is originally from Shanghai, China and earned his BA from Minzu University of China in Beijing. He has taught classes including "the Asian American Experience", "Cities in the World", and served as a Teaching Assistant for "World Civilization" and "Intro to American Studies" at UB.
I chose UB's Transnational Studies* because of its interdisciplinary emphasis, the close student-faculty relationship, and the generous support from this department. Our American Studies program enjoys internationally acclaimed reputation and houses a diverse student body. The faculty members here are exemplary scholars, caring mentors, and stimulating interlocutors. They are all willing to spend time fostering students within and beyond the classroom. I also treasure the experience working as a teaching assistant--it allowed me to observe up-close how a seasoned professor prepare for lectures; it honed my skills in facilitating discussions and making incisive comments; it also reinforced my knowledge of the field. My fellow grad students are eager, hard-working, and friendly people. The department staff genuinely care about your well-being and are always encouraging. I am fortunate and honored to call TNS my academic home. - Shengkai Xu
*The Department of Transnational Studies is now called the Department of Africana and American Studies