As an autistic person I’ve never been able to intuitively understand social interactions the way others do. Because socialization has always been a science to me, sociology is a field where my disability is a strength. In my time at Penn State Harrisburg I’ve gone from feeling like there wasn’t really a place for me in the world to believing that the work I do is valuable. Through the sociology program I’ve developed a sense of belonging as well. It’s an entire group of people with similar interests to myself, and we look out for each other.
Andi Moritz
Intro to Sociology was my first course with the sociology department and my first time meeting Dr. Lewis. At that time, I was only pursuing a criminal justice degree, but Dr. Lewis saw potential in me and recommended I take sociology as a dual major. Saying yes was one of the most beneficial decisions I made in my academic career. This program provided me with a valuable way of thinking about the functioning of the world, a greater sense of empathy, and an ability to address problems from an objective standpoint. As a student in this department, I had a support system that held me up when times became difficult and without it, I am not sure where I would be or if I would have accomplished the things I have done. A degree in sociology is extremely valuable as a stand-alone degree and as a dual-major, it sets you apart from others in the job market. It is also important to note that I managed to achieve my second degree with no extra time, no added cost, or increased course load. It was simple, streamlined, and with the assistance of my faculty, I was able to excel in the program. I could not recommend it enough to pursue a degree in sociology. Graduation Year: 2024
Fabian I Vantassell
The sociology program here at Penn State Harrisburg is versatile. The teachers in the program have courses that get you to think about how useful sociology is to the real world. It makes you think about situations and come up with solutions. It is not just a general education course. It is a program that allows you to use the concepts and terms across all disciplines. It is relevant to criminal justice, science, behavioral health, mathematics, education, and many other areas. This program is one of the best programs at Penn State Harrisburg.
Margaret Gustafson
The most influential aspect of the Sociology program at Penn State Harrisburg is the individual passion of each professor and their love for the discipline. The unique combination of each professor’s individual focus and expertise has instilled many practical life skills onto my educational experience. As a result of this dedication and guidance, I have been able to reach my highest potential. I am confident that I am leaving this program well rounded and prepared for the next chapter of my life.
Jaime Maddox
I have found a very supportive environment in the Sociology program at Penn State Harrisburg. The faculty and staff are genuinely concerned about student well-being and committed to giving them a quality education. Faculty members are willing to spend a great deal of time outside the classroom mentoring me to enhance my understanding on sociological issues. I feel that the mentoring relationships I made with faculty have prepared me to excel in my future endeavors. I attribute my academic success and enthusiasm as a sociologist to the outstanding faculty of Penn State Harrisburg.
