SPIA is excited to introduce Roberto Carlos, assistant professor of political science!

Roberto Carlos received his PhD from the University of Chicago in 2018. His main research areas are race, ethnicity, and politics, with a particular focus on Latinx politics, immigration, representation, political behavior, and socialization. When he’s not working, he and his wife enjoy traveling in search of phenomenal food and drink. 

What attracted you to UGA?    
RC: Several things! One was the chance to work with a group of amazing scholars doing exciting work in American politics. Two, southern hospitality, including the opportunity to say y’all without being judged. The food and music scene didn’t hurt either.                    

Where did you grow up? 
RC: I grew up in San Antonio, Texas.

What are you working on that you’re most excited about?
RC: I am excited about a project that demonstrates that children have more political influence in their household than has been conventionally understood to be the case in the political science literature. 

What was your favorite part of your college experience?
RC: Getting my degree. I did not think it was that big of a deal. But the awareness of being the first in my family to do so was much more emotional than I expected once I walked that stage on graduation day. That feeling will always stay with me.

What is your favorite food?
RC: The taco is sheer perfection. What a wonderfully simple yet delicious food. 

Please tell us one fun fact about yourself. 
RC: I will do anything for my wife and I to be able to meet Uga. We are bulldog obsessed. 

What are you looking forward to in the coming year?
RC: Getting to know the students and my colleagues. And the fall, the humidity here is no joke. 

What is one goal you have for yourself for the next year?
RC: Beyond work goals, I want to make Athens home by investing in the community. 

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
RC: Besides convincing my wife to marry me, being a professor at UGA is at the top. This is not something my parents likely envisioned for their son when they first arrived in the United States. I am not even sure I did. 

What advice do you have for SPIA students?
RC: Give yourself options. Take risks!