Julia Szabo
2025 Recipient
Bio
Julia Szabo is an Assistant Professor of Sociology and Latino/a Studies and is co-funded by the Social Science Research Institute (SSRI). Her research examines how lived experiences, structural inequality, and spatial contexts influence residential and school choices among Latino families. She completed her doctoral degree in sociology from Rice University and is a former middle school teacher.
Campus: University Park
Impact Statement
I was excited to work with TLT and Top Hat staff during my first year at Penn State to design and engage students in the introductory Sociology course Social Problems. From live slides and in-class questions to reading quizzes, Top Hat allowed me to easily share material with students and create space for them to express their opinions and check their understanding of class material. Individual meetings throughout the semester ensured that when I had questions they could be quickly answered.
Programs and Events
Top Hat is Penn State’s Student Response System and Learning Engagement Platform. During class, drive discussions, take live polls, and give students real-time feedback. Outside of class, instructors can create and personalize interactive content, assignments, and assessments.