10.

00
10.00
10.00
10.00 10.00 10.00
10.00

sites affect
7.00 10.00
10.00 10.00
7.00
7.00 9.00
10.00 7.00
10.00
10.00
9.00 10.00

college students socialize?

10.00

in Sociology
7.00 10.00
7.00
10.00 10.00
10.00
10.00 10.00
10.00
10.00 10.00
7.00

21st Century Careers

10.00 7.00
7.00
7.00 10.00
10.00
10.00 10.00
10.00 10.00
10.00
3.00 9.00
10.00 10.00
7.00
10.00

with an Undergraduate Degree

10.00 10.00 10.00

2nd Edition
10.00
10.00
10.00 10.00 10.00
Expected 174.640 95.387 10.00
0 = the frequencies observed E = the

7.00

2
7.00 7.00 7.00
10.00
95.385
10.00
What is the differe

x=
Sociology prepares
you to live in a
changing world and
change the world
you live in.
Sean Conner, BA in Sociology

ii
 Table of contents
21st Century Careers
with an Undergraduate
Degree in Sociology

2nd Edition

American Sociological Association Career Profile:Mastering the Sociological Imagination...............1

1430 K Street NW. Suite 600 Career Profile: An Undergraduate Degree in Sociology
Washington OC 20005 is a Good Stepping Stone to the Future ............................2

(202) 383 9005 What is a 21st Century Career? •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 3

www.asanet.org Change ........................................................3
twitter.cam/ASAnews Increasing diversity..............................................3
www.facebook.com/AmericanSociologica/Association Educational levels .............................................. .3
Ethics and social responsibility....................................4
Sociology and the 21st century career .............................4
Your life as a composition ........................................4
Career Profile:Be Prepared to Live in a Changing World,
and Change the World You Live in .................................6
Career Profile:Understanding Different Viewpoints
Makes You More Valuable to Any Team.............................7
Career Profile: Apply the Textbook Concepts Outside the Classroom.. 8

What Is Sociology? •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 9

How can studying sociology help your career?......................9
Why do students major in sociology? .............................10
Sociological content learning ....................................10
Sociological skill learning........................................ 11
Sociology teaches the skills employers want.......................13
Career Profile:Companies Want to Hire Creative Problem Solvers ....15
Career Profile:I Help People Figure Out Their Lives ................16

Whore Do Recent Sociology Graduates Work?•••••••••••••••••••••17

Social services,counselors ......................................17
Sales, marketing .............................................. .19
Administrative support. .........................................19
Teachers ..................................................... 20
Service occupations ........................................... 20

iii iv
 Copyright© 2013 by the American
Sociological Association

All rights reserved.No part of this

book may be reproduced or
utilized in any form or any means,
electronic or mechanical,including
photocopying, recording, or by
any information storage or retrieval
system, without permission in
writing from the publisher.

To order on-line go to: www.asanet.

Information technology/public relations/other professions ......... 20 org and click on "Bookstore."
Career Profile: Trust Your Instincts; Learn to Market Your Skills ......21 For additional information on this or
Career Profile:I Need to Understand the Culture other ASA publications, contact:
Where a Crime Took Place.......................................22
Social science researchers ......................................23 American Sociological Association
Management ..................................................24 1430 K Street NW,Suite 600
Career Profile: When Congress Asks Questions, Washington DC 20005
We Help Provide Answers ...................................... 25
Career Profile:Immerse Yourself in Internships ................... 26 Tel (202) 383 9005
Fax (202) 638 0882
What Con I Do to start My Career Now? ,.......................27 TTY (202) 638 0981
Get to know yourself- what are your goals? ..................... 28 Email: [email protected]
Start looking for your first job- now ............................ 28
Career Profile:Data is Almost a New Form of Currency ............ 29
Career Profile:The Most Important Skill I Learned
is Critical Thinking............................................. 30
Develop your professional network ..............................32
Go on informational interviews...................................32
Create a coherent course plan ...................................33
Do an internship and volunteer ................................. 34
Join the sociology club- or start one ........................... 34
Create your core resume ........................................35

What about Graduate School? ................................ 37

How Can the American SocloiOQical Association Help? •••••••••••• 39

"The Student Sociologist"....................................... 39
"Navigating the Major" ......................................... 39
"The Guide to Graduate Departments"............................ 39
The ASA Honors Program ...................................... 39
Student membership .......................................... 39
Additional career resources .................................... 40
References and notes...........................................41

v vi
CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE

Mastering the Sociological An Undergraduate Degree in

Imagination Sociology is a Good Stepping
Stone to the Future
Fred Postello Sushama Tilakaratne
BS, MA and PhD in Sociology BA and MA in Sociology
President, LeMoyne College Research Associate

Studying sociology causes you to If you have the opportunity to do As a research associate, I support multivariate analysis, social
be analytic and reflective about research with a mentor it will help a wide range of projects by doing epidemiology, and medical
structure and culture, to be you focus your sociological eye. project management, survey sociology.
sensitive about what's behind It becomes part of you, an development, data collection
what you are seeing. It helps analytic, insightful way to view (using telephone and web-based An undergraduate degree in
develop critical thinking skills with and interact with the world. systems), database management, sociology is a good stepping stone
a knowledge base that provides and report preparation. to many future avenues, espe-
insights that you would otherwise I would encourage students who cially with a solid foundation in
not have. are considering sociology. We live My research methods and statistical analysis, and qualitative
in a time when there is a lot of quantitative analysis classes were and quantitative research
Once you've mastered the pressure to study disciplines that especially useful as I learned how methods. There are many
sociological imagination you're seem to have a more direct to conceptualize and approach entry-level research assistant
armed with a powerful perspec- translation into a job, but we know problems. In these classes I positions for graduates looking to
tive that allows you to be that people shift jobs many times learned to collect data, clean gain experience in the research
detached in analyzing social in their lifetimes and what data, and conduct data analysis industry before pursuing a
phenomena, and to do so with the sociology does is prepare using descriptive statistics and graduate degree in law, public
kind of depth and skill set that graduates for a changing world. document analysis, as well as health, health administration,
you can only develop with writing up findings. I have also public policy, or sociology.
rigorous social scientific training. Sociology is a central part of who taken several multi-disciplinary
I am and what I do. courses in survey methodology,

2
 go to graduate school or not, you foster your creativity, innova-

What is a 21st thinking carefully about how you

will use your undergraduate degree
as the starting point for your career
tion,critical thinking, analytic
problem solving and communication
skills.Sociology will challenge you
Century Career? is essential.Remember, most people
have many different jobs during
to see the world through the lens of
different cultures and communities
their careers- your challenge right and give you opportunities to
now is to prepare yourself to get collaborate with others in develop-
your first job after graduation. ing multi-cultural and global
understandings.Sociological
Ethics and soc:lal responsibility methods can help you build strong
Situations of rapid social change math and science skills.Preparing
bring both opportunities and danger. papers about social problems,and
The 21st century labor market is lncreasinQ diversity The news is full of stories of the theories and evidence that can
fast-changing, increasingly global, 21st century careers take place in workplace failures to abide by social help us solve them, will foster the
and technology-driven.Many of the an increasingly diverse global norms and ethical standards,such strong writing and presentation
jobs you will be applying for after society.Being able to work effec- as hiring new populations of skills you need to succeed.
graduating from college did not tively with people from different immigrants at below minimum wage
exist when your parents began their cultures, ethnicities, and nationali- to work in unsafe conditions;failing Daniel Little, Chancellor of the
careers. ties has become a basic work-place to follow safety standards and, as a University of Michigan-Dearborn,
requirement. result, producing contaminated says sociology "provides a founda-
The skills you need to succeed in food and medicines; using technol- tion for better understanding and
the 21st century include:creativity, Educational levels ogy to invade people's privacy; and engaging with the globalizing world
innovation, critical thinking,analytic As the labor market in the United polluting poor communities to make our young people will need to navi-
problem-solving,communication, States moves from an industrial profits.Because the 21st century is gate and lead.It provides students
collaboration, multi-cultural and model to a service model, the characterized by rapid change and with the intellectualtools needed to
global understandings, strong math educational requirements for an increasingly global community, make sense of the shifting and con-
and science skills,and excellent employment are increasing.For successful 21st century careers will flictual social world we live in,and
written expression. advancement in many jobs you will depend on having a firm ethical this in turn permits them to contri-
need a Masters Degree or even a base for decision making, and a bute to solutions for the most dif-
21st century careers are also PhD.That said, one year after strong sense of the interconnected- ficult social problems that we face:' 3
marked by constant change, graduation,the vast majority of ness of all communities.
increasing diversity,and heightened sociology majors are not in Your life as a composition
educational requirements. graduate school, they are in the SocloiOQY and the Finding the meaningful thread that
work force.2 Whether you decide to 21st century career connects the 10 different jobs you
ChanQe The good news for sociology majors probably will hold before you are 40
21st century careers include many is that your studies are uniquely cannot be a passive process. To
Action Box
different places of employment, suited to help you develop the skills build your own 21st century career
often in completely different market Watch 'Did You Know? 3.0' (4:59) you need for a successful 21st you will need to use all your
sectors.While in the past, employ- This brief video docu- ments the century career: Sociologists study creativity and innovation.Now is
ees often stayed with a company for exponential change in our global social change,diverse communities the perfect time to start thinking
their entire career,you will probably society. and their interactions,and they use about your talents, interests and
have more than 10 different jobs scientific methods to find empirical career goals and how,combined
before you turn 40.1 YouD answers to complex social ques-
tions.Studying sociology can help
with your degree, they can help you
be competitive in today's job market.

What is a Zlst Century Career? 3 4

 CAREER PROFILE
This small booklet is designed to
help you start the process of
building your own 21st century
Be Prepared to Live in a
career. It focuses on sociology
majors who are thinking about their
Changing World, and Change
first, entry-level jobs after gradua-
tion. It is organized around six the World You Live In
central questions:
Sean Conner
• What is a 21st century career? BA In Sociology
Director of Operations
• What is sociology?

• Where do recent sociology

graduates work?

• What can I do to start my

career now?

• And what about graduate school?

• How can the American Sociologi-

cal Association help? I work with a non-profit animal sociological imagination to identify
advocacy group. My role includes the perceptions of my audience
Throughout the book you will find coordinating the work of local and and what unique factors may be
Action Boxes that suggest ways you national volunteers to expose influencing them, then work
can get involved in composing your cruelty to animals in factory farms creatively to challenge those
sociological career- starting today. and promote vegetarian eating perceptions while empowering
There are also examples of actual as a way to build a kinder world. them to make more compassion-
job postings for entry-level jobs in a ate choices.
variety of employment sectors Sociology teaches us that for all
where sociological skills are valued. social and environmental justice I would say to anyone interested
issues, the activist must thor- in sociology, do not be discour-
For this new edition, we've also oughly understand the mecha- aged by all the social problems
added a series of Career Profiles to nisms that contribute to inequal- you will inevitably identify, but
give you a chance to see how real ity and perpetuate a lack of rather, be grateful for how
people who majored in sociology compassion, and then strive to well-prepared you will be to both
are using their sociological knowl- develop approaches which best change the world you live in and
edge and skills in the workplace. lay bare these issues and live in a changing world.
About half the Career Profiles attitudes in a manner most likely
feature people who have a Bach- to drive change in others. Every
elors degree alone. The other half of public speaking engagement or
the Career Profiles feature people conversation about factory
who have also completed a Masters farming requires me to use my
Degree, and in one case, a PhD.

What is a 21st Century Career? 5 6

CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE

Understanding Different Apply the Textbook Concepts

Viewpoints Makes You More Outside the Classroom
Valuable to Any Team
Linsay Riddle Joe Pate
BA in Sociology BA in Sociology
High School Teacher MA in Negotiation, Conflict
Resolution, and Peace Building
Senior Immediate Response
Advocate

I currently teach sociology, discussions and dialogues with I respond to the scene of domes- ment. None of us exist in a bubble
psychology, US Government, and many viewpoints, even when we tic disputes, along with law of self-determinacy; our choices
US History at the high school are discussing controversial topics. enforcement, where I provide and environment are often a
level. My tasks include lesson crisis management, counseling, result of social factors. Realizing
planning, instructing, grading, and No matter what our chosen field, and legal information, as well as this is the first step to building a
classroom management. I also we are bound to encounter people referrals for community agencies better society.
sponsor the Student Council. who see things from a different and resources. I also provide
Though challenging, I find perspective. Being able to services to victims of sexual For current students my advice is
something satisfying about my understand those viewpoints assault and conduct trainings with to get engaged: talk to professors,
job nearly every day. makes you better at communicat- law enforcement officers. participate, and look for research
ing and more valuable to any and internship opportunities.
I use my background in sociology team in any profession. Cultural norms may discourage Sociology is a discipline that
on a daily basis. My understanding victims from reporting abuse. implores us to take the concepts
of different cultures, family If they do speak out, they may be from the textbook and apply them
structures, and religions and how shunned or suffer further outside the classroom.
they influence worldviews and violence. Socioeconomic status
values helps me communicate also comes into play. Poor victims
with my students and make the often have no means to get
content relevant to them. This lawyers or therapists, or safe
approach encourages open housing. They often lack transpor-
tation and do not have the skills
to obtain self-sustaining employ-

What is a 21st Century Career? 7 8

 Roberta Spalter-Roth -began a understand their own lives \17

What is Sociology? longitudinal study of seniors who

were majoring in sociology.The
percent).Using that knowledge,
they wanted to work to change
study is often referred to as the society for the better \16 percent).
Bachelors and Beyond study.Funded The majority of survey respondents
by the National Science Foundation, also majored in sociology for job
the goal of the study was to learn preparation (64 percent), research
about sociology graduates and their preparation (60 percent), and
career paths.The sociology majors graduate school preparation (54
in the sample were surveyed three percent).4 1n other words, students
times: once during their senior year, were fascinated by sociological
again 111! years after graduation and concepts and saw those concepts as
a third time in the Spring of 2009. relevant to their own life and goals.
Sociology is the study of social life, are used in product development, 1,777 students participated in the They were also passionate about
social change, and the social causes marketing, customer service first phase of the study, 778 sociology.This is important because
and consequences of human appraisals, and the development of graduates participated in the research has repeatedly shown that
behavior.Sociologists investigate social policies, programs, and laws. second phase and 354 participated feeling personally connected to
the structure of groups, organiza- Non-profit organizations and in the third phase. your work is a key element in career
tions, and societies and how people foundations use the results of success and satisfaction.5
interact within these contexts.Since sociological analysis to better In 2012 the Research Department
all human behavior is social, the understand social problems and to began to study a new cohort of Soclolo1Jical content learnlniJ
subject matter of sociology ranges work for positive social change. graduating seniors for a study As Table 1 illustrates, f!7 percent of
from the intimate family to the called Social Capital, Organizational the 2012 graduating senior
hostile mob; from organized crime How can studylnq saclalaqy Capital, and the Job Market for New respondents felt confident of their
to religious traditions; from the help your career? Sociology Graduates. 2,695 senior ability to describe and explain a
divisions of race, gender and social Sociologists use data to answer sociology majors from 160 depart- broad array of sociological con-
class to the shared beliefs of a questions about the social world.In ments around the country partici- cepts, including how people's
common culture. the next few pages you will find data pated in the first phase of this experiences differ depending on
that will help answer the question survey; seven months after their social context.The majors also
While the humanities and the arts "how can studying sociology help graduation 1,108 of them partici- fellconfident of their ability to
also frequently examine and reflect my career?" Tables 1 and 2 list the pated in the second phase. The present sociological explanations
on the social world, sociology is conceptual abilities and skills that findings described in this booklet about current social issues, and to
distinct because it is a social real sociology majors said they are drawn from both the 2005 and describe sociological theories.
science. It uses theoretical frame- gained as part of their studies. You 2012 studies. They also understood what social
works and scientific methods of can then compare those findings to institutions are, and how they
research to investigate the social the skills that employers said they Why do students major impact individuals' lives. Well over
world and lest hypotheses with valued in a recent survey, which is In soclolc>tJy? half of the majors were also
empirical data.Sociological summarized in the box titled "It Ninety-seven percent of the confidant about their ability to
methods include survey research Takes More Than a Major:Employer graduating seniors who respon- analyze social policies, including
and statistical analysis, focus Priorities for College Learning and dents to the 2012 study said they their impacts and consequences.
groups,in-depth interviews and Student Success." decided to major in sociology
ethnography,conversational because they found the concepts Each of these areas of content
analysis, and content analysis of In 20051he Research Department of interesting.They wanted to under- learning is highly relevant to today's
both written and visual documents. the American Sociological stand individuals within social complex global economy, and can
The results of sociological analysis Association -under the direction of forces (90 percent), and to better be thoughtfully woven into cover

What is Sociology? 9 10
TABLE TABLE 2

Sociological Content Learning Sociological Skill Learning

Percent of students who said "yes,definitely" they had gained the ability Percent of students who said they had learned or improved
their skill in this area •a great deal"

1091. 70... 9091. 10091.

Identify the impact and consequences of social policy

Soura: ASA.Social Copital, Orv;mizationol Capii:BJ. and the JfJb Marl<et for Now Sociology Glilduatos Survey, 2012.

letters and resumes to help employ- As you can see in Table 2, sixty
ers understand how sociological percent or more of the respondents
concepts and theories can be felt they had learned "a great deal"
applicable to their organizations. about making an evidence-based
argument,identifying ethical issues
Socloloqlcalskill learnlnq in sociological research, writing
The graduating seniors were also reports for lay audiences,develop-
asked about the research skills they ing bibliographies, and evaluating
learned as part of their sociology the strengths and weaknesses of
major.More specifically, they were research methods.Half of the
asked, "Please select the extent to graduating seniors said they had
which you believe you learned or learned a great deal about creating
improved each skill." The response hypotheses,interpreting results of
categories were "a great deal" to different data gathering,and
"very IittIe." making Power Point presentations.
Source:ASA.Social Cop/to/,Osvanlzatlonol Cop/tal,and tho Job Marl<et for New Sociology Glilduatos SUIYey,2012.

What is Sociology? 11 12
Forty percent or less of the develop new solutions to complex
graduating seniors chose the problems.They want new employ- It Takes More Than a Major:
highest response category, "a great ees to have strong critical thinking Employer Priorities for College Learning
deal," when describing the extent to and communication skills.They also
and Student Success
which they learned how to analyze valued ethical judgment, the ability
quantitative data, describe percent- to work in diverse teams, and
ages and statistics in a bivariate openness to continuous learning. Data From an Online Survey of Employers Conducted on Behalf of the Association of
table, graphically display data, write Importantly, they also thought American Colleges and Universities. Excerpts from the Summary of Key Findings.
a resume, write a research or grant students should have more opportu-
proposal, or use qualitative analysis nities to apply their learning in Innovation a Priority
packages. Amanda Makulec (Career real-world settings, and to conduct
Profile p.29) acknowledges that research and do evidence-based • Nearly all employers surveyed (95 percent) say they give hiring
"research methods and statistics analysis.Studying sociology will help preference to college graduates with skills that will enable them to
may seem frightening" to some you develop the skills and aptitudes contribute to innovation in the workplace.
students. "But the power of 21st century employers want.
sociology is the ability to apply a • 92 percent agree that "innovation is essential" to their organization's
scientific approach to studying continued success.
population level behaviors and
outcomes, which is fascinating.So Cross-Cutting Capacities vs.Choice of Underqraduate Major
learn the methods and stats, and
one day you'll find them to be your • Nearly all those surveyed (93 percent) say that "a demonstrated
most powerful allies." capacity to think critically,communicate clearly, and solve
complex problems is more important than [a candidate's] under-
Sociology teaches the skills graduate major."
employers want
In 2013 the American Association of • More than 9 in 10 of those surveyed say it is important that those
Colleges and Universities commis- they hire demonstrate ethical judgment and integrity,intercultural
sioned Hart Research Associates to skills, and the capacity for continued new learning.
conduct a survey to identify the
essential aptitudes and skills that • More than 75% of employers say they want more emphasis on 5 key
employers -including private areas including:critical thinking,complex problem-solving, written
sector and non-profit organizations and oral communication, and applied knowledge in real-world settings.
-wanted college graduates to gain
during their studies.6 • Employers endorse several educational practices as potentially helpful
in preparing college students for workplace success.These include
Look over the summary of findings practices that require students to a) conduct research and use
(see box) from the employer survey evidence-based analysis; b) gain in-depth knowledge in the major
and notice how frequently the and analytic, problem solving and communication skills; and c) apply
concepts and skills that sociology their learning in real-world settings.
majors said they learned in Tables 1
and 2 correspond directly to the
essential learning outcomes
employers valued.21st century
employers want students who have
innovative ideas and can work to

What is Sociology? 13 14
CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE

Companies Want to Hire I Help People Figure

Creative Problem Solvers Out Their Lives

Steve Ressler Alexis Mesko

BA and MA in Sociology BA and MA in Sociology
Founder and CEO, Govloop.com Probation Officer

The company I founded is an The most important skills that one I am responsible for providing Sociology has made me aware of
online community for public can get from studying sociology closely structured supervision of all the things that can impact an
servants. The heart of the are the ability to critically solve offenders at several sites, individual's life, including race,
problem we are trying to solve is problems and present solutions preparing and presenting court class, gender, ethnic background,
"how to get public sector and arguments. Sociology testimony, and evaluating etc. I use this knowledge to
employees to connect, share, and provided a framework that helped offender progress. navigate different treatment
engage in an online community." me understand problems using routes for an individual. For
Every day we must use our both theory and qualitative and I learned early on that whatever example, sometimes a person's
sociological imaginations and quantitative methods. It forced work I ended up doing, it needed spirituality is really important to
think about the social construc- me to present my understanding to be meaningful. Sometimes them and being able to recognize
tions that affect participation. and analysis of arguments using people make mistakes and need a that and understand what
For example: how do social norms compelling data and facts. little help to get re-socialized and motivates them can help me get
prevent public collaboration? on the right track. As a probation them to successfully complete
We must consider social factors Companies want to hire creative officer, I have access to ample probation.
and barriers when deciding how problem solvers that can help find resources and can utilize them to
to tailor incentives to facilitate solutions to the rapidly evolving help different offenders depend- Sociology can be challenging, but
conversations. We also think challenges of the 21st century. ing on their needs. Probation is the harder it is, the more you get
critically about how to present the last step before prison and I out of it. This discipline changed
problems in order to avoid the want to do whatever I can to keep my life. I use my degree everyday
bystander effect and instead someone from going to prison. at work.
encourage action.

What is Sociology? 15 16
 PIGURI I

Where Do Recent Sociology Occupational Categories for Sociology

Graduates' First Jobs
Graduates Work? 23% SocialServices,Counselors

If you are like most students,you Degree,these same students are

will need to find a job right after likely to move up on the organiza- 14% Sales/t.tarketiOQ
you graduate.Graduate school may tional charts.For that reason,the
be a long-term goal,but starting Career Profiles that are found
payments on school loans is often throughout this booklet include
an immediate reality.So what kind profiles of sociology graduates who
of a job can you get with an went on to get an MA in sociology
undergraduate degree in sociology? or another discipline,in addition to 14% Administrative Support
As a sociology major,you would profiles of graduates who are
probably like to see some data, not building their careers on the basis
just read reassuring statements, of their bachelors degree alone.
about the value of a broad liberal I
arts education in general, or a Socialservices,counselors
sociology major in particular.This 23 percent of the 2012 graduates 12% Teachers
section of the booklet does just that were working in social services
- providing information about the and
actual jobs sociology majors like
you held shortly after graduation. SOCIAL IEifVICI!: ..1011 LIITINO

Case Manager 12% Service Occupations

In the 2012 Social Capital, OTT}aniza- DUCIUI"TION leading mental

tional Capital,and the Job Market health services provider seeks
for New Sociology Graduates full-time Intensive Case Manager
Survey, recent graduates were to monitor clients and coordinate 8% Information Technology/Public Relations/
asked about the kinds of jobs they planning and access to commu- other Professions
held just seven months after nity services for housing,
graduation.Figure 1 examines the education,vocation,socialization, 5% SocialScience Research
occupationalcategories of these benefits and finances•..
students' first jobs after graduation. ..101RIOUIRI:MINTS A bachelor's 4% Managemant
Keep In mind that after a few degree in sociology•••excellent
years of job experience and in interpersonal and organizational
8% other
some cases,the addition of a skills. I
Masters

Where Do Recent Sociology Graduates Work? 17 18

 Source:ASA.Soclo/ Cop/to/,Orr;on/zotJonol Olplt.J,•nd tho J® /Urlcet for Now SocJology Gnduotes SutYey, 2012.

Where Do Recent Sociology Graduates Work? 17 18

counseling positions.Graduates SALESINARKETING JOB LISTING ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT JOB LISTING Teachers
working in social services may have Marketing Assistant Program Assistant In both 2006 and 2012 about twelve
a wide range of job titles, including: percent of the respondents to the
case worker for abused and neglect- DESCRIPTION Organization DESCRIPTION National SOCial survey of sociology graduates were
ed children; director for the Meals on creates free fundraising plat- science non-profit provides working as teachers. Some had
Wheels program; forensic interviewer forms for sports and music fans grants to support African Amer- combined their studies in sociology
for a child advocacy center; to raise critically needed funds ican, Latino, and Native Ameri- with teaching certificate programs
Medicaid eligibility coordina- tor.Joe for respected charities and can scholars and those commit- and were working in public schools.
Pat(Career Profile p.6) is foundations.Marketing assistant ted to this goal. Program Assis- Others were working in private
an advocate for victims of domestic creates creative content,tracks tant works with staff to admin- schools, were members of Ameri-
violence and sexual assault. marketing efforts, and conducts ister grants, organize seminars, Corps, or were teaching English in
market research. workshops and conferences. schools abroad.Lindsay Riddle
According to the Bureau of Labor JOB REQUIREMENTS Bachelor'S Joa REQUIREMENTS Social (Career Profile p.7) finds that she
Statistics, "employment of social Degree, strong analytic,interper- science bachelor's degree... uses her background in sociology
and human service assistants is sonal, verbal and written skills, superior organizational skills, on a daily basis in her role as a high
expected to grow by nearly 34 passion for social change... attention to detail, strong school teacher.
percent through 2016.Job pros- interpersonal and communica-
pects are expected to be excellent, tion skills, ability to meet Service occupations
particularly for applicants with the graduates working in this category competing deadlines. In 2012, twelve percent of the
appropriate post-secondary may be designing and executing recent graduates were employed in
education." 7 marketing plans, conducting jobs that were categorized within
marketing research, running capital 14 percent of the recent graduates "Services." These jobs may fall
To be successful in social service campaigns, or writing commercial who responded to the 2012 survey within the subcategory of protec-
jobs, employees need to have a copy for radio.8 As a Marketing were working in some form of tive services - such as crime scene
deep understanding of the social Consultant, Andrew Caber (Career administrative support.These jobs technician, police officer, and
factors that contribute to poverty, Profile p. 30) uses his sociological may be located in a wide range of probation officer. Alexis Mesko
illness, and unemployment. They skills to analyze customer decision- office settings, including:a parale- (Career Profile p.16), works as a
must understand how social making patterns for his clients. gal in a courthouse, an immigration probation officer and draws on her
institutions impact individuals and specialist for a large company, an understanding of the impact of
how to work respectfully and Administrative support office manager; and a scheduler in race, ethnicity, class and gender on
effectively with people from diverse Administrative support positions the office of a State Representative. individuals' lives as she works
racial, ethnic, and class groups. are the classic entry-level job. In to find the best treatment plans for
non-profit organizations these jobs The Bureau of Labor Statistics the offenders she supervises.
Sales,marketlnq often have the title "Program Occupational Outlook Handbook Jessica Lightfoot (Career Profile
Customers are a social group that is Assistant." By taking advantage of points out that all organizations p.22),considers the cultural
influenced by all of the factors that the opportunities and contacts that need skilled administrative support context in which crimes take place
sociologists study, such as gender, an entry-level administrative staff in order to be successful, and in order to better investigate
race, class,culture, and age. Sales support job can provide, sociology that they are employed in every financial fraud as an Intelligence
and marketing jobs can provide graduates can get the experience, sector of the economy.It also states Research Specialist.
ample opportunities to apply the contacts and specific work-place that "when evaluating candidates
insights of sociology to the world of knowledge they need to become for these jobs, supervisors look for Information technoloqy/ public
business.Sales and marketing jobs competitive for more advanced strong teamwork, problem-solving, relations/ other professionals
also exist in the non-profit sector. positions.Remember, 21st century leadership, and communication 21st century organizations need to
An example can be seen in the job careers have many steps. skills, as well as determination, effectively communicate their
posting on this page. Sociology loyalty, poise, and confidence." 9 mission and the ways they are

Where Do Recent Sociology Graduates Work? 19 20

CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE

Trust Your Instincts; I Need to Understand

Learn to Market Your Skills the Culture Where a Crime
Took Place
Karina Havrilla Jessica Lightfoot
BA in Sociology BA in Sociology
Graduate Program Coordinator Intelligence Research Specialist

In my current position as Gradu- for evaluation. I created the first I am responsible for investigating As part of my concentration in
ate Coordinator I track the draft of the new evaluation forms financial fraud, including money criminology I took a class where
progress of doctoral students and that faculty and students laundering, embezzlement and we would visit different places in
oversee the application and complete at different stages of terrorist financing. No two cases the criminal justice system every
admission process. I particularly the program. Once the final draft are the same, which keeps things week, including the courts,
enjoy interacting with the was approved by the faculty and interesting.I also feel good homeless shelters, prisons (both
students. I also enjoy working to the administration, we then knowing that I'm keeping our juvenile and adult), and police
improve the department and collect the data and submit a country a bit safer. stations. By meeting people in so
program for future cohorts. report to the Graduate School on many different work settings,
how well our program is doing. I often try to understand the I saw where I could contribute.
Research methodology, data culture where a crime took place, I found my current job through
analysis, and writing have been My advice to future sociology the norms of the person or the that class.
the most helpful skills in my students would be to trust your business where it happened.
current job. For example, during instincts and don't listen to those Learning how people's contexts My advice is to do as many
my first year I worked with the who don't understand the - including their cultures- internships as possible. I took part
Graduate Director to re-design discipline's many applications. influence the way they think in three, and that helped me
our Graduate Outcomes Assess- Sociology provides you with many can help me predict a person's identify my interests, as well as
ment evaluation tools. We useful skills, you just have to learn response. my strengths and weaknesses.
discussed what our program's how to market them and apply Also, develop a good working
goals were, what the benchmarks them to your career. relationship with your academic
should be, and the best methods advisor.

Where Do Recent Sociology Graduates Work? 21 22

working to advance that mission. SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH ..lOB LISTING Manaqement
The stakeholders who need to Research Assistant Sociology graduates in manage-
receive that information may ment positions may have many
include customers, clients,inves- DESCRIPTION International different responsibilities, such as:
tors, members, volunteers, the Consulting Corporation working coordinating programs; running
media, government officials and with government and industry to government contracts; providing
regulators.People working in develop solutions to energy, oversight for quality assurance
Information Technology and Public climate change, and public policy operations and customer satisfac-
Relations help create and maintain problems.Research assistant tion; working in human resources
a positive public image for their helps collect and analyze related to hiring, training, and
organizations. Web sites and social qualitative and quantitative data, conflict negotiation; and ensuring
media play a central role in public reviews literatures, and interacts equal opportunity for employees.
relations.Eight percent of the 2012 with government and commer- Karina Havrilla (Career Profile p. 21)
graduates were working in this area. cial clients. works as the Graduate Coordinator
One survey respondent wrote,"I ..1aa REQUIREMENTS A bachelor's at a major university, where she
work as a Public Affairs Program degree in related field, minimum regularly uses her research
Assistant in an office that focuses GPA of 3.0, excellent written and methods, data analysis and writing
on human trafficking.I provide oral communication, computer skills.She says, "My advice to future
research, public diplomacy, and skills, detail orientation, ability to sociology students would be to
program support for the public work under strict deadlines. trust your instincts and don't listen
engagement team of my office." to those who don't understand the
Another described his work as discipline's many applications.
"coordinator for a small state social science research and the Sociology provides you with many
agency (work includes administra- number of sociology graduates who useful skills, you just have to learn
tive support, public policy, public/ say they are working in this area how to market them and apply them
government relations, and event has to do with a mistaken impres- to your career."
planning)." According to the Bureau sion that only people with a PhD
of Labor statistics, work in this area can do research.In reality, there are Opportunities in administrative
is expected to grow through 2020 a wide range of research-related management are expected to grow
because organizations need to employment opportunities for by about 15 percent between 2010
"maintain their public image in a students at the Bachelor's level. and 2020.12 Being an effective
high-information age and with the Remember that the ability to administrative services manager
growth of social media." 1o conduct research and empirical requires "good leadership and
analysis was a key skill that communication skills and to be able
Social science researchers employers said they valued in the to establish effective working
Only 5 percent of the 2012 respon- AAC&U survey cited earlier in this relationships with many different
dents were working as social booklet. An additional advantage of people, ranging from managers,
science researchers. Yet in a this kind of work is that it provides supervisors, and professionals, to
comparison of internet job searches excellent preparation for individuals clerks and blue-collar workers.They
at three popular on-line job banks, who plan to go on to graduate should be analytical, detail-oriented,
the terms 'research' and 'data' school. To learn more about careers flexible, and decisive.They must be
produced the largest number of in social science research, read able to coordinate several activities
entry-level job postings.n Perhaps Shushama Tilakaratne's Career at once, quickly analyze and resolve
the disparity between the number Profile (p.2) as well as Emily specific problems, and cope with
of postings for entry-level jobs in Larson's (p.25). deadlines." 13

Where Do Recent Sociology Graduates Work? 23 24

CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE

When Congress Asks Immerse Yourself in

Questions, We Help Provide Internships
Answers
Emily Larson Marcus Pruitt
BA in Sociology, MA in BA in Sociology
Public Policy County Employee, Graduate
Senior Analyst, Government Student
Accountability Office

In my position as a Senior Analyst improvements that are non-parti- Currently, I work in the travel and As a Ronald E. McNair alum
at the Government Accountability san, independent, and fully tourism sector of county govern- (mcnairscholars.com). I cannot
Office, I assist in investigations supported by facts. ment. Interacting with people express how important and
regarding federal government from many different places is one beneficial their summer research
spending. When congress asks Medical sociology was my favorite thing I particularly enjoy. I am program has been for me.
questions, I am responsible for course in college. It challenged also a graduate student and a Summer research provides you
leading projects that will provide me to view the medical system graduate research assistant. My with the opportunity to work
the answers. including research from a variety of perspectives, sociology background has greatly closely in the discipline and area
design, data collection, and data including allopathic western aided my graduate school pursuits. of your choosing; you are also
analysis. I gain a great sense of doctors, alternative medical My training in how to use the surrounded by likeminded
satisfaction when I see our providers, low-income patients, current literature, methodology, individuals who provide encour-
reports quoted in the media, or by and immigrant and non-English and data analysis has helped me agement and support.
a member of congress. speaking patients. This class transition into a better researcher.
opened the door for me, and long
Armed with a sociological after helped me view other social My advice? Immerse yourself in
imagination, I am able to address issues from a variety of view- internships and as much research
public policy issues through many points. which ultimately led as possible. There are many
lenses and viewpoints. From me to a path of success in my opportunities both stateside and
there, I am able to tell a story and current position. in other countries for students.
make recommendations for I have been able to apply my skills
at a non-profit organization as
both an intern and a volunteer.

Where Do Recent Sociology Graduates Work? 25 26

 time finding a job. Although the Another student's perfect job may

What Can I Do to Start story of these two students is

fictional, the lesson behind their
be coordinating social services in a
rural health clinic that serves a
story is supported by data.The small farming community. If these
My Career Now? results of the second wave of the
"What Can I Do with a Bachelor's
two students participated in a
reality TV program that made them
Degree in Sociology" study indicate switch places, those 'good jobs'
that graduating seniors who instantly would be transformed into
included their research skills on terrible jobs -without changing
their resume, and talked about anything about the jobs themselves.
those skills in job interviews, were
far more likely to get jobs that So spend some time thinking
related to their studies in sociology carefully about who you are, where
The first thing you can do on your data about the clients who came to and more likely to be satisfied with you want to go, and what you want
path to a successful 21st century a local food bank and the donations the jobs they got.,. to do.CareerOneStop.org has links
career is simply recognize that you the food bank received. As part of to five different assessment tools
have to start preparing now. her internship she created SPSS The good news for you is that that you can explore:
files and was able to demonstrate reading this booklet can be your
Imagine it is May, and two students that there was a mismatch between first step in positioning yourself to • The Skills Profiler identifies skills
who majored in sociology are about the months when the food bank had be more like the second student in and matches them to jobs.
to graduate. Although they both the most clients and the months the fictional scenario. You can
think they would like to go to when the food bank received the follow Marcus Pruitt's advice • O*NET's Ability Profiler matches
graduate school in a year or two, for most donations.Her data helped (Career Profile p. 26) and "Immerse strengths with occupations.
now they are looking for jobs. One the food bank get additional grant yourself in internships and as much
of them just wrote his first resume, money from their state. Her current research as possible." • O*NET's Interest Profiler identifies
and struggled to find anything to put resume, which prominently lists her broad interest areas.
under "work and volunteer experi- social science research skills, also Get to know yourself-
ence." He also put off taking the lists a link to her electronic what are your qoals? • O*NET's Work Importance
statistics and research methods portfolio, which includes the Success is not a one-size-fits-all Locator identifies job features that
classes required for his major until PowerPoint presentation she did for concept, nor is the definition of a are important to you.
the very end of his studies, and does the staff at the food bank at the end good job universal. Working in a
not feel confident of his ability to of her internship, as well as large city in a fast-paced, high-pay- • Employability Checkup provides a
use SPSS or any other statistical examples of her written work.In her ing, government job may be one snapshot of your employability.
software-so he did not say anything recent job interview she was able to student's dream-come-true.
about data analysis or statistics on explain how she collected and Start looking lor your
his resume. In a recent job interview analyzed data during her internship. first jab-now
he said that studying sociology She also could effectively define Even if you are in your first or
taught him a lot about people. sociology as a science that makes
Action Box second year of college,you can start
use of both quantitative and Take two (or three) of the self· looking for your first job.If you are
The other student wrote her first qualitative data to provide insights assessments found at CareerOne further along in your studies, it's
resume during her freshman year, on effective responses to social Stop.org and compare and not too late to get started.Browsing
did volunteer work in a homeless problems. contrast what they tell you.How job listings can help you clarify
shelter for two years, and complet- are the results similar? How are your goals for your first job after
ed an internship at a local food bank It is not hard to figure out which they different? What new insights graduation, and help you define
where she collected and analyzed student is going to have an easier about yourself do they offer? what you need to do to achieve

What Can I Do to Start My Career Now? 27 28

CAREER PROFILE CAREER PROFILE

Data is Almost a New Form The Most Important Skill

of Currency I Learned is Critical Thinking

Amanda Makulec Andrew Cober BA in

BA in Sociology, Sociology Marketing
MA in Public Health Consultant
International Public Health
Consultant

My responsibilities in my current particularly the ability to write I am a Senior Solutions Consul- consumer outreach, we get to see
position at a public health about and share technical tant for a strategic communica- the impact of our research in a
consulting firm vary widely from information with lay audiences in tions research and consulting much shorter timeframe. It's very
project to project which makes my an easy-to-understand way. firm. Our focus is on understand- rewarding.
job really interesting. I work in the ing human decision-making
international division monitoring To those who are considering through primary research that Without hesitation I would say the
and evaluating maternal and child sociology, research methods and lends measurable value to the most important skill I learned
health programs. statistics may seem frightening. enterprises and clients we serve. through studying sociology that
But the power of sociology is the Over the course of a year I may has translated directly into my
In today 's economy, where data is ability to apply a scientific develop strategic research current job is critical thinking.
almost a new form of currency, approach to studying population initiatives for clients ranging from Clients and employers are looking
cultivating a strong understand- level behaviors and outcomes, your local electric or natural gas for individuals who can process
ing of research methods and at which is fascinating. So learn the utility, to a leading digital information, dissect it and recog-
the very least basic data analysis methods and stats, and one day technology manufacturer, to a nize both the stated and latent
skills will be respected by potential you'll find them to be your most children's hospital, to an agricul- meanings there. With information
future employers. Understanding powerful allies. tural trade association, to a pest increasing exponentially and
research methods also cultivates control company. information delivery channels
a certain form of analytic thinking I feel like my work has purpose. I fundamentally reshaping how we
that can be applied to various also love that no two days are the In sociology, we are often "learn" and what we "know"
problems and challenges, no same, keeping me on my toes and measuring social change in years, about the world, critical thinking
matter where your career goes. giving me opportunities to work or decades. In my work, which skills are vitally important.
I've also found that strong writing with many different people. focuses on communications and
skills are exceptionally valuable,

What Can I Do to Start My Career Now? 29 30

those goals.Research has shown • Program assistant Go on Informational Interviews
Action Box
that people who set clear and • Human resources In order to build your professional
specific goals are far more likely to Find three entry-level job • Research assistant network, you need to meet people
achieve them than people who have postings that interest you.Then • Non profit who are working in the employment
only good intentions.This is also answer the following questions: • Government sector that interests you (such as
true for grades- students who are • Marketing business, non-profit associations,
self-motivated and set high goals 1 What employment sectors are social services, social science
for themselves were more likely to they in? What populations do Develop your professional network research, or government).Informa-
achieve good grades.15 The same is they serve? While internet searches can be tional interviews can be very helpful
also true for career success. Setting helpful for clarifying your career in this regard. An informational
clearly defined and challenging 2 What are the requirements goals and identifing additional interview is just a conversation with
goals leads to greater success in the for the job? knowledge or experience you need someone who is working in an
workplace than vaguely conceptual- in order to achieve those goals, they occupation that you would like to
ized efforts to "do my best.",D . on't 3 What could you do in the next are not a particularly effective way explore. One of the major differ-
worry if your goals change over few years to build a resume that of finding a professional job.In ences between a job interview and
time -most people's do.However, would make you an outstanding examining the data from the 2012 an informational interview is that in
creating a goal now and starting to candidate for that job? study of sociology graduates, the an informational interview you will
work toward it will be far more factors that were most highly be asking most of the questions.
useful and productive than waiting associated with obtaining a
until you have perfect clarity. using the job titles listed under career-level job after graduation So how do you get an informational
'sociology' on Form El-23, or try a were consulting with faculty interview? The first step is to locate
Here are some on-line job banks broader key word search. members, participating in capstone someone working in your area of
you can use to start your job hunt: seminars and career workshops in interest and ask them for a brief
• ColleQeGrad.com. This site the department, and talking with (20-30 minute) informational
• ldealist.orq. This site lists jobs in specializes in entry-level jobs, internship advisors and former interview. Your college or univer-
non-profit organizations all over the although it includes listings for employers.Through activities like sity's career center and alumni
world.The site also lists internship many advanced positions as well. these students meet potential center may be able to direct you to
and volunteer opportunities. employers, learn about job open- individuals you can contact. In
In your searches, especially in large ings, and can submit applications addition, ask the people in your
• CareerOneStop.orq. This site has national-level job banks, layering that are far more likely to result in social network if they know
links to all 50 states' job banks. search terms can be helpful. Start career-level employment. Graduates someone you can contact. Your
with a search terms that reflect who only looked for jobs on the social network includes your
• USAJobs. ov.This is the Federal your current level of experience: internet or the newspaper were far professors, family members, friends,
government's job bank and includes less likely to obtain career-level neighbors, and the people where
jobs in all federal agencies and •BAorBS • Entry level employment after graduation.17 you are a volunteer or intern.The
offices across the United States. In keeping with this, Marcus Pruitt Internet also can be a wonderful
Begin by searching for "Form El-23" Then add your sociological skills: (Career Profile p. 26) says, "Im- way to search for businesses or
in any internet browser.This merse yourself in internships and as non-profit organizations in the
document lists federal job titles by • Sociology • Research much research as possible." Jessica occupational area you want to
college major.Then go to USAjobs. • Social science • Diversity Lightfoot agrees (Career Profile explore. Once you have located an
gov and click on "advanced search." • Data • Statistics p.22) and adds, "Develop a good organization, look for the unit
Scroll down to the pay grade fields working relationship with your within that organization that fits
and enter "5-7." This will ensure that If you get too many listings, add an academic advisor." your interests best. Then find the
you are looking for entry-level occupational category or market name of the person who supervises
postings.From there you can search sector. that unit or department. Write that

What Can I Do to Start My Career Now? 31 32

person a letter introducing yourself sector or population that you hope Do an Internship and volunteer wide net- the more organizations
and explaining that you are to work with after graduation, you Internships offer invaluable you contact. the better your
requesting a brief informational can amplify the power of your experience that can bring to life the chances of getting an internship.
interview because you would like to sociology major by taking a multi- sociological concepts and theories
learn more about the opportunities disciplinary approach.Consider a you study in books and the Although volunteer work is less
and requirements for working in double major or a minor in criminal classroom. You can sample formal than an internship, it can
their field or organization. Follow up justice, economics, psychology, potential careers, build your help you build a winning resume.In
with a phone call about a week later. social work, business management, resume, and learn new skills during addition, long-term volunteer
international relations, a second a well-chosen internship experience. experience can help counter-bal-
Once you have an informational language, graphic design, education, Many agencies and institutions ance limited work experience,
interview scheduled, follow some computer science, marketing, offer internships and most colleges especially if the volunteer work was
simple guidelines to make the natural resources, or human will provide college credits for in the same market sector where
interview successful: services.There are endless internships.Data from the "What you eventually hope to work.
possibilities- the key is to think Can I Do with a Bachelor's Degree in
• Limit the interview to 30 minutes. about how your choice will advance Sociology" study indicate that Regardless of whether you are
your career goals. Employment participating in activities such as considering doing a formal intern-
• Dress professionally. analysts predict that the most internships, community volunteer ship, taking a service learning class,
successful people in the 21st century projects, and service learning or independently volunteering, with
• Bring your resume. will be those who have been exposed programs significantly increases the careful planning your activities can
to a wide variety of disciplines and likelihood of being employed in jobs work together to build a coherent
• Ask the person you are meeting have taken the time to study in that reflect the skills and concepts set of experiences that will apply
with about their career path. some depth outside their field. learned as a sociology major. to your career goals and help your
How did they get their job? What resume stand out in the crowd.
do they like about it? What does it Work with your advisor to develop A wide range of internships are
take to succeed in their field? an integrated set of courses. You available to sociology students in Join the socioloqy club-
can bolster your employability by the for·profit. non·profit. and or start one
• Ask what qualities they look for using your elective hours to take government sectors both in the Taking leadership roles in the sociol-
when hiring entry level employees. extra methods and statistics United States and abroad.Start ogy club will help build your resume
courses, or upper-level courses and looking for your summer internship and give you an opportunity to
• Write a note to thank the person independent studies in sociology at least six months in advance. demonstrate your organizational
for sharing their knowledge and (or another discipline) that focus Winter break is often a great time to skills.Lead a service project for the
expertise with you. on the market sector, population, or start looking for an internship.Use club, become a club officer, or start
issues where you hope to build the same networks you used to get a sociology club if your department
Create a coherent course plan your career. informational interviews to help does not have one.
There is more than one way to locate informal internship opportu-
complete the requirements for Writing research papers that apply nities. Internship opportunities also A sociology club can be combined
graduation at your college.By to the market sector or population can be located through the internet. with a chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta
thinking carefully about your goals you hope to work with is useful as When you contact organizations (AKD), The International Sociology
in advance, you can choose topics well.18 By doing the research you about internship opportunities, be Honor Society. AKD's website
for class projects, elective courses, will gain information which you can prepared to explain why you want to www.alphakappadelta.org explains
and additional minors or second use in interviews for internships and do an internship there and what the criteria for membership, as well
majors that will help you reach your employment, and the paper itself personal qualities and sociological as how to start a chapter if your
career goals. will become a tailor-made writing skills you would bring to the school does not have one.Member-
sample to include with your job organization. Ask if you can send ship in AKD will help strengthen
Once you have identified a market applications. your resume and cover letter. Cast a your resume, and also give you an

What Can I Do to Start My Career Now? 33 34

 and skills, add them to your resume. their resume- and talked about via email,create an electronic
Action Box them during job interviews- were
Each time you apply for a job, you version of your signature to
Get the Sociology Club to will edit your core resume and write significantly more likely to report include. Another option is to print
organize a panel presentation of a unique cover letter tailored to using their skills in the workplace. your letter, sign it, and then scan it
sociology alumni.Ask them to that position.Start building your They also viewed their work as to an electronic file.Either way,
talk about their work, what they core resume now, even if you just closely related to their studies in convert your letter to PDF format
do, how they found their jobs, declared your major. As you start, sociology and had high levels of job and send it as an attachment. This
and what advice they have for you will probably notice that some satisfaction.This was true even for will make sure that it is received
current majors. If alumni no areas of your resume are "thin." respondents who did not feel as a professional, polished
longer live in the area, ask them Those will become the areas that completely confident about their example of your work.
to present through video Skype. you can spend time bolstering skills when they graduated!19
before you graduate. • For both your resume and cover
Jane T.Student's partially complet- letter, make sure that they are
automatic pay increase if you get a When you are writing your core ed resume can give you some free of spelling and grammar
job with the federal government. resume, review the sociological ideas for sections to include in your errors.Slowly proof read them
concepts and skills shown in Tables own resume. yourself, and then ask someone
Create your core resume Think of 1 and 2 of the section of this booklet who is an excellent writer to proof
your resume as a core document entitled "What is Sociology?" Resumes should be one page, them again. Many employers
that you will build over time. As Recent graduates from sociology error-free, and highlight your full immediately discard cover letters
you gain new experiences programs who listed those skills on range experiences and skills.They or resumes with errors.
should be printed on plain white or
off-white paper in black ink with a
simple clear font.
.Jane T. Student
Here are a few additional guidelines
123 Main Street, University Town,ST 12345 to keep in mind when writing
123-456-7891 (cell) resumes and cover letters:
jtstudent®gmail.com
• Use an email address that includes
Objective: your name and is professional.
To obtain a research assistant position using strong data analysis, 'dropoutjoe®hotmail.com'
teamwork, and communication skills. probably does not send the
message you intend.
Education:
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, expected May 2018. • Make sure your cell phone and
home phone voice mail messages
capabilities and Skills: are also professional.

Work end Volunteer Experience: • If you are sending a resume via

email, turn it into a PDF first.
Senior Research Project: This will prevent the formatting
from being corrupted in the file
Relevant Coursework: transfer process.

Extracurricular and Leadership Experience: • If you are sending a cover letter

What Can I Do to Start My Career Now? 35 36

 • Association of Black Sociolo-

What about gists (ABS)

• Eastern Sociological Society
(ESS)
Graduate School? • Mid·South Sociological
Association (MSSA)
• North Central Sociological
Association (NCSA)
• Pacific Sociological Associa·
tion (PSA)
• Sociologists for Women in
Society (SWS)
• Southern Sociological Society
An undergraduate major in concepts they learned in sociology (SSS)
sociology provides an excellent to pursue professional or applied • Southwestern Sociological
foundation for graduate study in a degrees. 20 Society (MSS)
wide range of fields.18 months
after graduation,35 percent of the By using SPSS scaling techniques, • List your sociological skills on
individuals who responded to the the ASA researchers were able your graduate school application.
second wave of the "What Can I Do to identify factors that predicted
with a Bachelor's Degree in respondents' successful entry • For students interested in entering
Sociology" study were enrolled in into graduate school.If your a master's program, seek out
graduate school.Among those,the goal is graduate school, their on-thej·ob training activities,
largest single group (22 percent) findings provide a number of including internships and volun-
was composed of students pointers. teer opportunities.
studying sociology at the graduate
level. The remaining individuals • Focus on doing well in your • For students interested in entering
primarily were using the skills and sociology course work.A high a PhD program in sociology, seek
GPA is particularly important for out professors who are willing to
BA &. Beyond Respondents' students who hope to pursue a become mentors and allow you to
Graduate Fields of Study PhD in sociology. assist on research projects.

Field of Study Percent • Join the Alpha Kappa Delta In short,if your goal is graduate
International Sociology Honor school,your undergraduate studies
Sociology 22% Society. in sociology are an excellent place
Social Work 17% to start. The respondents in "What
Education 11% • Attend,and consider doing a Can I Do with a Bachelor's Degree in
Law 11% poster presentation, at the Sociology" study strongly agreed
other Social Sciences 9% annual meetings of state, that their sociology major provided
Psychology/Counseling 9% regional,or national sociology good preparation for graduate and
Engineering 7% associations.Some of these professional school.
Business/Management 5% include:
Public Policy/Affairs 4%
other 5% • American Sociological
Total 100% Association (ASA)

What about Graduate School? 38

 student member you will receive

How Can the the Association newsletter,

Footnotes, a monthly email alert
called "Member News and Notes."
American Sociological You will also automatically become
a member of the ASA Student

Association Help? Forum which provides resources for

undergraduate and graduate
students and helps develop
networks among student members.
The Student Forum publishes a
regular newsletter which includes
information and opportunities
According to its mission statement, ates that covers course selection, relevant to students and depart-
the American Sociological Associa- research and internships, careers, ments.Listed on your resume or
tion is a non-profit membership graduate school and much more. graduate school application,
organization dedicated to advanc- membership in the ASA also
ing sociology as a scientific "The Guide to Graduate demonstrates a professional level of
discipline and profession serving Departments•• interest in sociology.
the common good.There are Available in the ASA on-line
numerous ways the ASA can help bookstore, the Guide to Graduate Additional career resources
you as you compose your sociologi- Departments is published every The ASA website also includes an
cal career.Listed below are just a year and provides information on extensive list of links to websites
few of the many resources that can graduate programs in sociology and that will help you as you explore
be found on the Student Resources is indexed in a variety of ways, career options.The Student
page of the ASA website. To get including program emphasis. Resources page on the ASA website
there, go to www.asanet.org,click is once again the place to look
on Teaching & Learning, and then The ASA Honors Proqram This (http://www.asanet.org/students/
click on Students:Undergraduate. program is a wonderful opportunity students.cfm" http://www.asanet.
Even more useful material can be for sociology majors to come to the org/students/students.cfm)
found by clicking on the Student Annual Meeting, meet other
Resources link in the left side students, and learn more about the
column on that page. profession.The ASA Annual Meeting
occurs in August each year; the
''The Student Socloloqlst" deadline for applying for the Honors
This is a newsletter for students and Program is on or around February
their departments.It is produced by 1st. Check the
the ASA Student Forum and is Student Resources page on the ASA
available as a free PDF download. website for the exact deadline.

"Navlqatlnq the Major" Also Student membership

available as a free PDF download on You can become a student member
the Student Resources page of the of the ASA for as little as $50 (this
ASA website, Navigating the Major is price includes a subscription to an
a guide for undergradu- ASA journal of your choice). As a

How Can the American Sociological Association Help? 39 40

References and notes 9 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. 15 Zimmerman, Bandura, Martinez-
Department of Labor,Occupa- Ponz.1992."Self-Motivation for
tional Outlook Handbook, Academic Attainment: The Role
2008-09 Edition. Retrieved April of Self-Efficacy Beliefs and
24, 2009 (http://www.bls.gov/ Personal Goal Setting." Ameri-
oco/ocos059.htm" http://www. can Educational Research
bls.gov/oco/ocos059.htm). Journal, Vol. 29, No.3 (Autumn):
663-676
10 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S.
Department of Labor,Occupa- 16 Edwin A Locke and Gary P
tional Outlook Handbook, Latham. 2005."Goal Setting
2012-2013 Edition, Public Theory:Theory Building by
Relations Managers and Induction." Chapter 7 in Great
Bureau of Labor Statistics. 5 Roberson, Loriann. 1990. Specialists. Retrieved October 21, Minds in Management, edited by
200B.Number of Jobs Held, "Prediction of Job Satisfaction 2013 (http://www.bls.gov/ooh/ K.G.Smith and M.A.Hilt. Oxford:
Labar Market Activity, and from Characteristics of Personal Management/Public-relations- Oxford University Press.
Earnings Growth Among the Work Goals." Journal of Organi- managers-and-specialists.htm"
Youngest Baby Boomers: Results zational Behavior 11(1):29-41. http://www.bls.gov/ooh/ 17 Spalter-Roth, Roberta, Nicole
from a Longitudinal Survey. Management/Public-relations- VanVooren, Michael Kisielewski
USDL OB-OB60. Washington, DC: 6 Association of American managers-and-specialists.htm). and Mary Senter.2012."Strong
Department of Labor. Colleges and Universities and Ties, Weak Ties, or No Ties: What
Hart Research Associates. 2013. 11 Vitullo, Margaret Weigers.2009. Helped Sociology Majors Find
2 American Sociological Associa- It Takes More than a Major: "Searching for a Job with an Career-Level Jobs?" American
lion.2005.What Can I Do with a Employer Priorities for College Undergraduate Degree in Sociological Association:
Bachelor's Degree in Sociology Learning and Student Success. Sociology." Footnotes. American Washington DC.
- A National Survey of Seniors Washington, DC. Retrieved Sociological Association,
Majoring in Sociology. Washing- October 14, 2013 (http://www. Washington DC. 1B Ferrante, Joan.2009.Wadsworth
ton DC. aacu.org/leap/presidentstrust/ Sociology Module: Careers in
compact/2013SurveySummary. 12 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Sociology. Belmont CA: Wad-
3 Little, Daniel.2012."Why a elm) Department of Labor, Occupa- sworth.
Sociology Major?" Huffington tional Outlook Handbook,
Post. Retrieved October 11, 2013 7 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. 2012-2013 Edition. Administra- 19 Spalter-Roth, Roberta and Nicole
(http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ Department of Labor, Occupa- tive Services Managers. Re- VanVooren. 2008.
daniel-little/college-sociology- tiona/ Outlook Handbook, trieved October 21, 2014 (http://
major_b_1641546. 2008-09 Edition. Retrieved April www.bls.gov/ooh/management/ 20 Spalter-Roth, Roberta and Nicole
html?view=screen). 24, 2009 (http://www.bls.gov/ administrative-services-manag- VanVooren. 2009./dealists vs.
oco/ocos059.htm" http://www. ers.htm). Careerists: Graduate School
4 Spalter-Roth, Roberta, Nicole bls.gov/oco/ocos059.htm). Choices of Sociology Majors.
VanVooren, Michael Kisielewski 13 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. American Sociological Associa-
and Mary Senter.2012."Recruit- B Spalter-Roth, Roberta and Nicole Department of Labor,Occupa- tion, Washington DC.
ing Sociology Majors: What Are Van Vooren.200B.What Are the tional Outlook Handbook,
Effects of the Great Reces- They Doing with a Bachelor's 2008-09 Edition.
sian?" American Sociological Degree in Sociology? American
Association: Washington DC. Sociological Association,. 14 Spalter-Roth, Roberta and Nicole
Washington DC. Van Vooren. 2008.

41 42
 American Sociological Association

1430 K Street NW, Suite 600

Washington DC 20005
202 383 9005 phone
202 638 0882 fax
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[email protected]

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