Potter College News

Sociology is the study of life and society, examining how various aspects of our lives shape and mold the world around us. The sociology major in the Potter College of Arts & Letters (PCAL) dives deep into these broad yet essential questions, allowing students to explore and understand the complexities of human behavior and social structures. Sociology students in PCAL develop essential skills like critical thinking, analytical problem-solving, and multicultural and global awareness, preparing them to excel in their future careers and endeavors.

For senior Avery Yates, the path to studying sociology began with a passion for criminology. Yates is a sociology and criminology major from Bowling Green and her plans after graduation include attending law school.

"Criminology comes from sociology," said Yates. "You’re studying life. I have always liked to know the 'why' in everything, and that is what sociology does. They are very much intertwined."

Nashville native, Arianna Pierson, is also a senior studying sociology and criminology. She is eager to begin a career in social work upon graduation where she can help disadvantaged youth. Pierson found her way to the major through a similar desire to understand the social aspects that shape individual lives.

"There is an answer for the things that we go through in life; it can be brought down to a science," Pierson explained. "Many people wonder, 'Why was I born here?' or 'Why is my life harder than others?' and sociology helps you answer those questions."

Both students have found unique aspects of the program that resonate with them. Yates is fond of the faculty and the close-knit community they've fostered. "The way the faculty interact with the students is something that I haven’t seen in my other classes that branch out of my department," she noted. "Our classes are relatively small, and the teachers not only want to talk to you and help you understand the content in class one-on-one, but they’ll ask you ‘How are you doing today?’ I can go to them for advice."

For Pierson, the major's conceptual nature is what stands out among other programs and classes. "One of my favorite things has been learning about avoiding the statistics that I might face as a Black woman," she shared. "Sociology points out the struggles and issues that people in different populations face and learning about how the Black community rises despite hardship has been incredibly enlightening."

The sociology program has also provided Yates and Pierson with a strong foundation for life beyond graduation. Yates appreciates how the major has consistently connected to her everyday life. "I feel like I'm always advancing my studies, even if the class is online or in-person," she said. "In sociology, it's the study of society, which helps me to go out into the world and feel like I’m constantly using my major. I can take what I’m doing in life and bring it back to the classroom."

The program’s emphasis on community involvement has also been significant for Yates. "There is a big push from the staff for the students who aren’t from the area to get involved and plug in within the community. Many people who come to WKU end up settling down here, and a big factor in that is when they are in college, they got plugged into the community through an internship."

Pierson feels similarly about the applicability of her studies, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and open-mindedness. "One of the best parts about being a sociology major is that we learn that some people believe the way they do because of their upbringing, and I love watching people learn new ways of thinking that they haven't been exposed to yet," she explained. "You have to critically think and do the research. Sociology teaches us how to think on our own, go beyond the scope, and think outside the box."

For those considering a major in sociology, Yates and Pierson have some advice. "Go for it!" Yates urged. "It can pair so well with other majors and minors. You can relate sociology to anything. It will not only help you advance into your career, but it will help you throughout life in general as you are interacting with people, whether you’re at work, events, sports games, church, etc. You can always go back and think about what you are learning in class and relate it, and it makes us all better humans."

Pierson echoed this sentiment, adding, "Don’t come in with a chip on your shoulder about your beliefs. Be open to learning, exploring, and researching the people and things around you. Be prepared to read. Make friends with your professors. They can provide you with so much knowledge and shared experiences. Don’t quit when it’s hard or when you don't like what you're hearing. It’s not an episode of Law and Order; this is people’s real life, and you need to approach them as that."

Beyond their academic pursuits, both Yates and Pierson are heavily involved in helping within the community and are both advocates for those facing social injustice in different areas. Yates is connected with several community organizations, including the Barren River Child Advocacy Center and the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, where she coordinates the Warren County Teen Court program. Pierson is active with the Intercultural Student Engagement Center (ISEC), For The People Advocacy Group, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., and the PCAL Dean’s Council of Students. Their involvement in these groups not only enriches their education but also allows them to apply their sociological insights in real-world contexts, further highlighting the versatility and impact of the sociology program at WKU.

If you are interested in learning more about the sociology program, please visit the Department of Society, Culture, Crime, and Justice Studies website at wku.edu/sccjs.