Education
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Anthropology (Minor in Women’s & Gender Studies) – University of Northern Iowa (2010)
Master of Arts in Sociology (Emphasis in College Teaching) – Minnesota State University, Mankato (2012)
Master of Science in Sociology (Health and Aging Emphasis) – Florida State University (2014)
Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology (Health and Aging Emphasis) – Florida State University (2017)

What do you love about your job?
I am currently enjoying my second year as an assistant professor in the Department of Sociology at Wingate University in North Carolina. One of my favorite aspects of working at Wingate University is the ability to get involved in a variety of different areas and work on growth from the ground up. During my time here, I have been able to co-create a minor in medical sociology, teach courses in the women’s studies interdisciplinary minor, and am currently creating a long-term healthcare minor. Wingate’s smaller size also allows me the opportunity to work closely with students and faculty and develop connections that foster learning and mentorship for everyone involved.   

How did your major help prepare you?
Completing my sociology major at UNI – and receiving wonderful mentoring from the faculty – set me up directly for this career path. During my time at UNI, I was able to serve as a teaching assistant, conduct and present scholarly research, and write my undergraduate honors thesis. These skills, along with the courses and mentoring of faculty, allowed me a smooth transition into graduate school and, eventually, into this position. 

Most memorable part of your studies?
Favorite class: Simply because it was the catalyst for my education, the honors Introduction to Sociology seminar. It was also based on learning sociology through The Simpsons, which is always an exciting and refreshing way to learn!  

Favorite event: There are actually two here. (1) Presenting research from my Sociology of Culture and Sociology of Gender courses at conferences in Missouri and Louisiana; and (2) being inducted into Alpha Kappa Delta, the national sociological honor society. 

Favorite professors/role models: Dr. Stalp and Dr. Froyum were both amazing mentors and there for me every step of the way, whether it was teaching amazing courses, helping with my honors thesis, preparing me for graduate school, writing letters of recommendation or even celebrating my graduation with my family and I. I can never thank or repay them enough for their investments into my future. 

What advice would you give future panthers?
Take the time to work with your professors. Go to office hours, get to know them, ask for more. I know you are busy and – at times – overwhelmed with school, but take these opportunities to learn as much from as many people as possible, because it will do nothing but benefit you in the future. Sociology is an amazing major that gives you so many opportunities to understand your worlds, so enjoy the experience! If you do not understand something, ask for help. Never take anything for granted. 

There are also wonderful career options out there for students with sociology degrees at any level, so do what you love. Whether you want to stop after your Bachelor’s degree or continue to graduate school, the world needs sociologists, so you will find a home that is a wonderful fit for you with a fun, insightful, and challenging degree that will bring you satisfaction for years to come.