Robert L. Altman

Imagine a class where you’re not just memorizing facts, but actually learning how people grow, change, and connect throughout their lives. In HDFS, we dive into real human experiences—from how infants bond with caregivers, to how teenagers find their identity, to the ways families cope with stress and support each other. The class feels like a mix between psychology, sociology, and practical life skills. There’s a strong focus on diversity, relationships, and development across the lifespan. A lot of what we talk about is super relevant—you’ll leave class thinking differently about your own life, your family, and even how you interact with others. Discussions are open and engaging, and we use case studies, research, and real-world examples to connect the theory to everyday life.