Sociology concentration: Academic Sociology (but if Social Inequality and Social Justice had been an option at the time, that’s what I would have concentrated in!)
Minor: Gender Studies
Current job: Executive Associate
Why did you decide to major in Sociology?
I immensely enjoyed the sociology classes I took in high school and my freshman year at Wagner; I found the study of people and how they interact with each other fascinating. By the time I needed to declare a major, I had no idea what kind of work I wanted to be doing post-grad. I had already completed a number of sociology classes and knew that what I was learning from them would be applicable to many job fields, so it made sense to major in sociology.
How has your Sociology degree (what you learned in your classes, readings, assignments, etc.) helped you in your job (and personal life)?
Studying sociology deepened my understanding of different cultures and how one’s culture or cultures can impact every aspect of their life. From this, I have learned to be more compassionate toward those around me. I grew up in a very homogenous community, and my degree has helped equip me with the knowledge and understanding that there are so many other ways to view the world we live in than how I was taught to view it, and that these differences better us as individuals and better our communities.
Your fondest memory of a Sociology class?
I loved the Senior Learning Community with Dr. Ludwig. I interned with a reproductive health organization and used what I learned as an intern to write my thesis on a topic about which I was (and still am) very passionate. It was fascinating to hear my fellow classmates’ wide-spread research, as well. And while I enjoyed the more analytical and scientific side of sociology, it was also a lot of fun learning about the cultural impact of popular music of the 1960s and ‘70s in Professor Hoffner’s class.
Any tips you have for current Wagner (Sociology) students?
It’s okay if you don’t know what you want to do after you graduate! It’s okay if you don’t have a five-year plan! Study what interests you, collaborate with those who share your passions, and - as cliché as it sounds - don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.