Next Steps: Preparing for Life After UMass Amherst (SOCIOL 430)

The Sociology Career Seminar is designed to help students prepare for life after college. The first part of the seminar asks students to examine their interests, values, and skills to better understand themselves and make some preliminary decisions about the kinds of careers in which they might be interested. We then develop a set of tools and skills that are necessary when applying for employment or to graduate school, including a resume, cover letter, personal statements, professional presentation of self, interview skills, industry research, and organizational tools. The course also addresses topics such as student loans, student debt, budgeting, and money management after college.

Learning to effectively access University resources such as the Career Services Office, Alumni Association as well as networks within the Department, College of the Social and Behavioral Sciences, and UMass Amherst community will support students in pursuit of their post-graduate goals and professional development.

Why Should I Take the Career Seminar?

It is essential that students who hope to enter today's job market or find their way to graduate programs be able to articulate the skills, knowledge, and perspectives they have gained through their undergraduate education. Unfortunately, many students are under-prepared to do this in a way that allows employers or graduate programs understand the value the student brings to the table. This seminar provides the time, space, and guidance for students to examine their experiences, interests, values, and skills and present them in a professionally meaningful way.

Though this seminar is aimed at junior and senior sociology majors, sophomores and non-majors are welcome to join the class if space permits.

UMass Sociology Majors Have Skills Employers Want