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Adilene
Student
Pasadena, California
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What will be the best way to determine what major I would focus on for graduation if I graduate with an undergraduate degree in sociology ?
I am interested in leading a career in academic advising. I have been studying sociology for my undergrad as I knew it was a broad major, but now I am concerned that it will not be enough. I want to do graduate school since I want to do academic advising eventually. This way, I can focus on my career path directly.
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3 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
751
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Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Academic Advisors (like myself), come from a variety of different bachelors degrees.
I have had colleagues, who had bachelors in psychology subjects, English, sciences, and in my case the social sciences.
The primary requirement, to become an advisor, was a Master's degree.
Many of us took the upper degree in education, counseling, and in my case public administration.
Working successfully, with student populations, is something they look seriously at.
And I had many years working in an Academic Assistance Center, at a local community college, which helped my future career path to becoming an advisor.
So, these are some observations, which might be useful.
I have had colleagues, who had bachelors in psychology subjects, English, sciences, and in my case the social sciences.
The primary requirement, to become an advisor, was a Master's degree.
Many of us took the upper degree in education, counseling, and in my case public administration.
Working successfully, with student populations, is something they look seriously at.
And I had many years working in an Academic Assistance Center, at a local community college, which helped my future career path to becoming an advisor.
So, these are some observations, which might be useful.
Daniel J Clarkin Thillet
University Academic Advisor
4
Answers
Providence, Rhode Island
Updated
Daniel J’s Answer
Hello Adilene,
Drawing from my personal experience as an academic advisor, I believe my unique background in education, coupled with my Master's degree in the same field, significantly contributed to my profile's appeal. If you're considering a career in academic advising, hiring teams typically favor candidates who demonstrate strong teamwork skills, possess some counseling experience (this is crucial in teaching), and have a solid understanding of higher education dynamics.
To enhance your profile, I recommend considering further studies. Pursuing a Master's degree in education, counseling, or psychology could be a strategic move. This not only deepens your knowledge but also makes you more attractive to potential employers in the academic advising field.
Drawing from my personal experience as an academic advisor, I believe my unique background in education, coupled with my Master's degree in the same field, significantly contributed to my profile's appeal. If you're considering a career in academic advising, hiring teams typically favor candidates who demonstrate strong teamwork skills, possess some counseling experience (this is crucial in teaching), and have a solid understanding of higher education dynamics.
To enhance your profile, I recommend considering further studies. Pursuing a Master's degree in education, counseling, or psychology could be a strategic move. This not only deepens your knowledge but also makes you more attractive to potential employers in the academic advising field.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6346
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Adilene,
Choosing the Optimal Graduate Major for a Career in Academic Advising with a Sociology Undergraduate Degree
Having completed your undergraduate degree in sociology and with a desire to venture into the field of academic advising, it's crucial to carefully select your graduate major. While your sociology background offers a robust understanding of human behavior and societal structures, further specialization can boost your expertise in academic advising.
Here are some actionable steps to help you pinpoint the most suitable graduate major:
1. Explore Academic Advising Programs: Begin by investigating graduate programs in academic advising or related disciplines like higher education administration, counseling, or student affairs. Look for programs that provide both theoretical and practical learning experiences specifically designed for academic advising roles.
2. Evaluate Your Interests and Abilities: Reflect on your passions, strengths, and career ambitions. Think about which facets of academic advising intrigue you most and which skills you're keen to hone. This self-evaluation will guide you towards a major that resonates with your career aspirations.
3. Connect with Academic Advisors or Mentors: Engage with academic advisors, professors, or professionals in the field of academic advising for guidance. They can offer industry insights, suggest suitable graduate programs, and help you refine your career goals.
4. Explore Related Fields: While sociology offers a solid foundation for academic advising, consider delving into related fields that supplement your undergraduate degree. Disciplines like psychology, education, counseling, or social work can offer fresh perspectives and skills pertinent to academic advising roles.
5. Investigate Dual-Degree Options: Some universities provide dual-degree programs that let you merge disciplines or specialize in several areas concurrently. These options can expand your knowledge and enhance your employability.
6. Check Admission Requirements: Ensure you understand the admission prerequisites of potential graduate programs to verify your chosen major meets their expectations. Some programs may require specific prerequisites or prefer certain backgrounds.
7. Pursue Internship or Volunteer Opportunities: Acquire practical experience in academic advising through internships, volunteer roles, or part-time jobs. This real-world experience can validate your career decision and equip you with relevant skills for your future role.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Chronicle of Higher Education: This trusted source offers news, information, and resources about higher education, including insights into academic advising trends, graduate programs, and career paths in the field.
National Academic Advising Association (NACADA): NACADA is a dedicated professional association that advocates for high-quality academic advising in higher education. It offers research articles, conferences, and networking opportunities for those interested in academic advising careers.
U.S. News & World Report - Best Graduate Schools Rankings: This publication annually ranks graduate programs in various disciplines, including education and counseling. These rankings can assist you in identifying the best programs in academic advising or related fields for your graduate studies.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.
Choosing the Optimal Graduate Major for a Career in Academic Advising with a Sociology Undergraduate Degree
Having completed your undergraduate degree in sociology and with a desire to venture into the field of academic advising, it's crucial to carefully select your graduate major. While your sociology background offers a robust understanding of human behavior and societal structures, further specialization can boost your expertise in academic advising.
Here are some actionable steps to help you pinpoint the most suitable graduate major:
1. Explore Academic Advising Programs: Begin by investigating graduate programs in academic advising or related disciplines like higher education administration, counseling, or student affairs. Look for programs that provide both theoretical and practical learning experiences specifically designed for academic advising roles.
2. Evaluate Your Interests and Abilities: Reflect on your passions, strengths, and career ambitions. Think about which facets of academic advising intrigue you most and which skills you're keen to hone. This self-evaluation will guide you towards a major that resonates with your career aspirations.
3. Connect with Academic Advisors or Mentors: Engage with academic advisors, professors, or professionals in the field of academic advising for guidance. They can offer industry insights, suggest suitable graduate programs, and help you refine your career goals.
4. Explore Related Fields: While sociology offers a solid foundation for academic advising, consider delving into related fields that supplement your undergraduate degree. Disciplines like psychology, education, counseling, or social work can offer fresh perspectives and skills pertinent to academic advising roles.
5. Investigate Dual-Degree Options: Some universities provide dual-degree programs that let you merge disciplines or specialize in several areas concurrently. These options can expand your knowledge and enhance your employability.
6. Check Admission Requirements: Ensure you understand the admission prerequisites of potential graduate programs to verify your chosen major meets their expectations. Some programs may require specific prerequisites or prefer certain backgrounds.
7. Pursue Internship or Volunteer Opportunities: Acquire practical experience in academic advising through internships, volunteer roles, or part-time jobs. This real-world experience can validate your career decision and equip you with relevant skills for your future role.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
The Chronicle of Higher Education: This trusted source offers news, information, and resources about higher education, including insights into academic advising trends, graduate programs, and career paths in the field.
National Academic Advising Association (NACADA): NACADA is a dedicated professional association that advocates for high-quality academic advising in higher education. It offers research articles, conferences, and networking opportunities for those interested in academic advising careers.
U.S. News & World Report - Best Graduate Schools Rankings: This publication annually ranks graduate programs in various disciplines, including education and counseling. These rankings can assist you in identifying the best programs in academic advising or related fields for your graduate studies.
May God bless you!
James Constantine.