"I've been with the FBI for about a month and a half now.  The things I learned in [my sociology/criminal justice classes] have been very useful to me in order to succeed in my position.  I've been working hand-in-hand with Special Agents and Intelligence Analysts as a Research Analyst and the techniques I learned from you have helped me tremendously.  The writing aspect has also been a great help as I have to prepare many analyses of findings.  Thanks to you -- and the rest of the faculty -- I've been very successful so far.  I just wanted to... thank you for everything you taught me. "  (JD, 2009)

"I find myself more and more using the skills I learned at Villanova in my sociology classes... [including] a lot of research, critical thinking, etc.  I am very glad I have my Villanova education to help me out with [my current] stressful job!"  (JO, 2005)

"I use SO MANY of the skills I learned in my theory and methods courses in my job everyday... Tell your students that it has been over 2 years since I presented my paper at the Mid-Atlantic Conference and I still talk about it. I also think about it every time I get up to give a speech about what I have been working on to corporate officers (and it is good practice because college students are kinder audiences then CEOs!)" (CD, 2005)

"Academically, I found that my undergraduate coursework prepared me for the intense workload and challenging courses of the doctoral program. This has been particularly true in my required statistics, methods, and theory courses. The major requirements provided a strong background for me so I could apply the course material to my own research interests. The time management skills I gained also aided my transition to graduate school; this has enabled me to complete my course-work, be a teacher’s assistant, and pursue my own research interests." (JS, 2004)

"I am thankful for the experience of writing multiple research papers because it was great preparation for graduate school. Students should realize that while these may seem like a daunting task at the time, in the end it will be worth it." (JF, 2003)

"A sociology major exposes students to a great deal of research and writing, which are the foundations of law school...the study of sociology teaches you how to think and approach problems analytically. Critical analytical thinking is a skill you need to master in law school." (MD, 2002)

"Sociology has helped me in many aspects of my career. It has broadened the landscape of my mind by forcing me to recognize the differences between society and individuals. Providing me with special insight into organizational behavior, it gave me a head start in my experiences after graduation." (MR, 1999)

"My Sociological background provided an edge in my career. Sociology taught me to look at the 'big picture' and helps me to better understand my clients, assess their needs and effectively communicate with them." (KC, 1998)

"A sociology major exposes students to a great deal of research and writing which are the foundations of a law school...it teaches critical thinking which is a skill you need to master in law school." (Sociology graduate and practicing attorney)

"Overall, the teachers are wonderful... and the course options are tremendous.  In the Sociology department, I have always found a teacher-student relationship... The Sociology department is a family that welcomes a student to join their family.  It is a kind of department that helps a student to succeed in life." (Anonymous)