Lab 2: Questions that matter

For Lab 2, our group gathered crowdsourced information via twitter, Facebook, and in-person interviews. After browsing through some of the results, we formulated the question “When immigrating to the U.S. what made Michigan so appealing over other states?”

Going about gathering this information was interesting. It was a pretty personal question for most people and I had only gotten a couple good interviews. It’s a touchy subject in today’s climate. However I was able to gather some data with the interviews I got.

With the data gathered between the crowdsourced information and the in person interviews, the data shows that majority of immigrants coming to Michigan came for the jobs in the automotive industry. Other appealing factors were the education and natural features. Since Michigan is the home of the big 3 auto manufactures Ford, Chevy, and Chrysler, there is a higher chance of finding a stable source of income.

The manufacturing industry is a key factor to Michigan’s economy and according to The American Community Survey, manufacturing is the second largest occupation in Michigan, just following educational services and health care. Another great thing Michigan has to offer is all of the natural beauty and forestry that also seemed to draw people in. Of course all of the surrounding bodies of water is also very attractive. The cost of living is also cheaper which makes it more appealing to those who have little to start out with.

The information I’ve gathered with my group is very consistent with what’s on the community survey list. People follow the money, and the money is in the auto industry. Michigan is very good starting ground with a wide range of backgrounds throughout the whole state.

#journalism

This is a Wix stock photo that is patriotic