Sociologist Xóchitl Bada

Shaken, Not Stirred. Gin, Not Vodka.

Sociologist Xóchitl Bada studies the civic, cultural, and political participation of Chicago-based Mexican migrant hometown associations at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Before participating in a panel on what effects immigration reform might have on Chicago, she got specific about how she likes her martinis in the Zócalo green room.

Q:

If you could be any animal, which would you choose?


A:

A koala because they live in Australia, and that’s one of my favorite countries which I’d love to visit one day.


Q:

How do you unwind?


A:

I take long walks. I love Lake Michigan, and I live close by, so I enjoy the lake.


Q:

What keeps you up at night?


A:

Getting tenure.


Q:

Do you have a Starbucks name?


A:

I use my first name, which is Yolanda—a lot easier. Not just for Starbucks but for restaurants and places where I don’t want to spell my name.


Q:

What’s the most frustrating question your students ask you?


A:

Is it true that Mexicans have been here for a hundred years? Really?


Q:

Where’s the best Mexican food in Chicago?


A:

At my favorite taquería, which is La Cuchara in the West Loop.


Q:

What is your favorite cocktail?


A:

Martini, straight; shaken, not stirred.


Q:

Gin or vodka?


A:

Gin. Bombay Sapphire.


Q:

What makes you nostalgic?


A:

The beach in my hometown.


Q:

What’s your hidden talent?


A:

I can cook.


Q:

What’s your best dish?


A:

Rajas poblanas.