Kristen Woodbury Valletta ‘08

Kristen Woodbury Valletta ‘08

Sociology concentration: Family Studies/Social Work

Minors: Music; Gender Studies

Additional training/education: Masters in Social Work (MSW) from Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, CUNY; Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC)

Current job: Therapist at in a dual diagnosis outpatient mental health clinic

Why did you decide to major in Sociology? I wanted to use sociology as a spring board to a career in therapy and specifically social work.  I also liked looking at "people" as a whole, and the interplay between individuals and they various systems they are connected to.  People are social creatures and I liked how this major really emphasizes the various environments someone is a part of.

How has your Sociology degree (what you learned in your classes, readings, assignments, etc.) helped you in your job (and personal life)? There are many common threads between individuals, people, and systems and the work I do as a social worker.  I think the Sociology readings and classes helped students to expand their worldview, or at the very least, have increased understanding of the viewpoints of others.

What is your fondest memory of a Sociology class? … classes taught by Dr. Halley.  Doing research as part of your senior thesis and presenting it to the group was also a wonderful experience.

Do you have any tips for current Wagner (Sociology) students? Sociology is a very versatile degree that can take you far.  What you put into it, you will get out of it.