Rana’s academic path is rooted in a deep commitment to understanding refugee resettlement, immigration, feminism, and advocacy. “My research interests consisted of refugee resettlement, immigration, feminism, and advocacy-related studies,” she shares. “The Sociology Department at Western University had experts in all these fields, which made it the perfect place for me.”

Drawn to the Migration and Ethnic Relations (MER) specialization, Rana found an interdisciplinary community that expanded her perspectives. “I chose the MER specialization because I wanted to meet more people studying migration and connect with those working outside academia,” she explains. “This program provided exactly that.”

Her Master’s Research Project—an examination of the economic outcomes of refugees using data from the 2016 and 2021 Censuses—was a turning point. Working with large, quantitative, longitudinal datasets sparked a passion that ultimately guided her toward doctoral research. “It was a huge learning opportunity for me,” Rana notes. “It inspired me to work with big datasets, which is why I applied to a PhD program.”

Throughout her graduate studies, Rana has embraced opportunities for growth both inside and beyond the classroom. She has presented her work at conferences, earned academic prizes, and connected with scholars who share her research interests. She highlights the resources at Western that supported her success: “Access to the library databases, the Research Data Centre, and more has been invaluable. Career Services—including the photo booth for professional headshots—makes things so accessible. And the writing services helped me strengthen my active voice and writing.”

Rana also credits the mentorship and guidance she has received from faculty who have shaped both her academic and professional journey. “Sociology professors Dr. Yoko Yoshida, Dr. Howard Ramos, and Dr. Jerry Margolis provided invaluable guidance and support during our transition to graduate school and throughout our professional development,” she shares. “I am especially grateful to my supervisor, Dr. Michael Haan, whose mentorship has been instrumental in shaping my dissertation project and in directing me toward academic and professionalization resources that will support my future career as an academic.”

Beyond the classroom, Rana plays a significant leadership role in the department. As the Sociology Graduate Student Association Chairperson, she helps organize the annual graduate student conference, coordinates social events, and ensures graduate student perspectives are represented. “The community in the Sociology Department is supportive,” she says. “Everyone—faculty, staff, and students—has hectic schedules and responsibilities, so we try to keep things positive, professional, and occasionally lighthearted.”

When offering advice to prospective students, Rana emphasizes connection and curiosity. “Reach out to faculty and students in the department you’re interested in,” she encourages. “People are welcoming and often happy to share their experiences. Sociology has diverse sub-disciplines and a wide range of research interests. You can always find someone to have a meaningful conversation with.”

Era Rana’s story reflects the strength of Western’s Sociology program—its interdisciplinarity, its support systems, and its vibrant community of scholars. Celebrate her inspiring journey with us, and stay tuned for more student success stories across our Faculty of Social Science.