Anthropology and Sociology

Caitlin Handlin

BA, Anthropology (2020)

My experience as an Anthropology student at West Chester opened a world full of opportunities for me, and exceeded all expectations I had. I was able to combine my interest in the visual arts with my interest in Latin American studies to create my own path in the discipline. My professors supported me in all initiatives which included going abroad 3 times to conduct research; once in Colombia and twice in Peru. There were also several opportunities for my research to get published. Not only did this major provide the academics, but it exposed me to many different industries career wise.

Victoria Saintil, MS-HRM, BA in Sociology (2016), MS in Human Resource Management (2021), Doctoral Student of Public Administration (In Progress)

Current Position: Talent Acquisition Sourcing Partner

When I began my journey at West Chester University, I was declared a Criminal Justice major with Sociology as my minor. A few classes in, I quickly realized Sociology aligned more with my career goals. With that being said, I transferred over to becoming a Sociology major. Over the years I have worked in the human services field with roles consisting of case management. It allowed me to work with vulnerable populations who suffered from mental illness, individuals re-entering the workforce, school enrollment assistance, and managing care for the aging population. From that point, I decided to use my transferable skills in the recruitment space. It allowed me to not only present employment opportunities to candidates, but build relationships, identify workplace trends, fill in the gaps for diversity initiatives, and create talent strategies that align people with business goals.

Sociology taught me to view workplace challenges through a people-centered lens. It also allowed me to analyze human behavior, and how it correlates to a person's livelihood. When you discover the key motivators on why and how a person navigates life, you'll be able to meet them where they are to assist them getting ahead. Sociology provides insight into social dynamics, diversity, culture, communication, and human behavior, which are all essential components of managing and supporting a workforce.

Anna Hracho, B.A. in Sociology (2021)

Current Position: UPMC Community Health Choices (CHC), Assistant Service Coordinator

My time spent as a student at West Chester University mean so much to me and my Sociology degree from West Chester has been very helpful! When I graduated, I began my adult working career providing technical support to a drug & alcohol counseling center. Shortly afterwards, I transitioned into a role with my home county’s office of aging and protective services as a Care Manager. I remained in the role for multiple years and learned more about myself and our social world from that role than any other position I’ve taken since. I now provide remote assistance to social workers with their administrative tasks so that they have more time to go see their clients!

George Clapper III, B.A. Sociology (2014)

Current Position: Sam’s Club, Regional Fulfillment Director

I graduated from West Chester University in 2014 with a degree in Sociology. One of the biggest benefits of the program was the diverse course load, which helped me better understand different perspectives and experiences across groups of people. Those lessons have been extremely valuable throughout my career in retail, where diversity, communication, and relationship-building are important every day.

Since graduating, I have lived and worked in multiple states and have supported operations across the entire East Coast. Those experiences have helped me adapt and relate not only to associates, but also to the members we serve at Sam’s Club. Today, I work as a Regional Fulfillment Director, supporting online pickup and delivery operations across the East Coast.

In addition to the social and behavioral courses I took at West Chester, the math-focused sociology courses also helped prepare me for my career. The analytical thinking, data interpretation, and problem-solving skills I developed are skills I still use regularly today in leadership and operational decision-making. Sociology taught me how to better understand people while also thinking critically, and both have played an important role in my professional growth.

Caitlin LaPorte, B.A. Sociology (2013)

Current Position: Director of Grants and Foundation Relations at Delaware County Community College

I graduated from West Chester University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and went on to complete a graduate program for Art Gallery and Museum Studies in Manchester, UK. Currently, I am a Development Associate for a nonprofit in the Greater Philadelphia Area. When I took my first Sociology class, as a junior in high school, I knew that it was a path that I wanted to continue to explore and I even declared my major before starting my freshman year at WCU. Pursuing a sociology degree was incredibly valuable as it encourages you to view society and human behavior in ways that you might not have otherwise. My degree influenced everything from my decision to move abroad to the career paths I have taken. I am incredibly grateful for my time at WCU and in the Sociology Department.

Fariza Malik, B.A. Sociology (2020)

Current Position: Mortgage Loan Officer

I started at West Chester University as undecided because I wasn’t ready to choose a path without fully exploring what WCU had to offer. After taking a sociology course, I realized how much sociology influences every part of our lives, whether it’s in the workplace, gender roles, healthcare, or everyday interactions. What stood out most to me was how open and versatile the major is. It showed me that I wasn’t limited to one specific direction, but instead developing skills that could be applied anywhere.

Today, I work as a Mortgage Loan Officer in the financial industry and I use my sociology background every day. Whether I’m navigating corporate environments or guiding borrowers through financial decisions, I constantly rely on my understanding of social dynamics and human behavior. I work with clients from different states, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and sociology taught me that nothing is ever black and white. Being able to listen, ask the right questions, and understand each person’s unique situation has been one of my greatest strengths in this role because it allows me to build genuine connections. Sociology truly strengthened my ability to understand people- both inside and outside of the workplace.

Rob Piña, LPC

B.A. Sociology - West Chester University (2014) 
M.A. Counseling Psychology - Arcadia University (2021)

Current Position: Assistant Director of Counseling Services - Rosemont College

In my current role, I provide holistic mental health services to students, collaborate with departments across campus to develop mental health programming, and partner with staff, faculty, and administrators to advance mental health awareness, inclusion, and connection. One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is its layered nature —balancing individual clinical support, community engagement, and advocacy.
Much of what I do today is rooted in the foundation I built during my undergraduate studies in Sociology at West Chester University. My coursework taught me to think critically, value diversity and lived experience, communicate with empathy and cultural sensitivity, and contribute to positive change within communities. My degree in Sociology not only fostered my personal and intellectual growth, but also shaped the nonjudgmental, inclusive, and integrative approach I bring to the therapeutic space.

Zoe Robinson, Class of 2023 Sociology & Political Science Majors

Current Title: District Court Clerk II

Going into my first semester at West Chester, I was unsure of what I wanted out of my college experience and the career path that it would set me on. I started as a Political Science major, as I had a growing interest in political activism, and decided to take SOC 100 during my second semester with only a vague understanding of the field. After looking at the other sociology courses that are offered, it did not take long for me to decide that I wanted to add a sociology major. Finding genuine interest in the course material and making connections with my professors has heavily shaped my career and educational paths, as I continue to navigate life post-graduation. Getting involved with Sociology Club, Alpha Kappa Delta, and two research conferences served as great resume builders as well as opportunities for personal and professional development. While sociology is unfortunately one of the smaller majors at West Chester, there are also advantages to being a member of a small class. It was easier to build relationships with my classmates and professors and to contribute to campus culture through numerous involvement events. Ultimately, I learned that sociology is so much broader than I thought and has various applications in all different fields that most people would not consider. Having a background in sociology and the professional growth opportunities that I had at WCU both contributed to an easier job search after graduation.

I’ve been working as a clerk at a Chester County District Court since October 2023. While a large portion of my job is procedural and does not always allow for sociological ways of thinking, I do feel that the way I interact with the public is influenced by my educational background in sociology. Working in a court allows me to interact with people from all walks of life, often in unfavorable situations. When interacting with people in vulnerable situations, it is important to maintain an understanding that everyone comes from a different background and experiences things differently. Although the justice system often operates in a binary way, there are many societal influences at play, and understanding the nuances can help to shape positive interactions with all of the varying people I engage with on a daily basis, no matter how different their lives or situations may be. So while I am not always applying the more methodical/scientific aspects of sociology in my job, my background in sociology has greatly improved my ability to work with the general public. While I do eventually want to find a more research-oriented job, I am finding great joy in being able to apply the more abstract ideas of sociology in my current job. My time as a Sociology major at West Chester built a strong foundation for my personal, academic, and professional life, and I am confident that I will be successful in my continuing career journey.

Emily Nair, B.A. in Sociology (2021)

Current position: Market Researcher

While obtaining my bachelor's in Sociology at WCU, I explored many different avenues on what my next steps were after school. From the ROTC program at WCU to then pursuing law school after graduating, I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to specialize in. With the variety of career choices available to those with a B.A. in Sociology, it was difficult for me to narrow it down for some time. However, I was certain that I would be fulfilled by pursuing my passion to help others and serve the public.

In my current position, I work as a market researcher for Veterans United Solutions where I've gained business operations and project management experience. My role primarily includes completion of administrative tasks, responding to requests for proposals via bid writing, marketing research and data analysis. My research and data collection skills are some of the most valuable tools that I gained at WCU. I most appreciated and loved working on projects where I could directly assist communities and individuals with specific needs. For example, I worked on a public health policy project for San Diego County that involved the development of a drug disposal bag program to reduce the risk of opioid misuse and prevent medications from entering the community. These projects are what encouraged me to continue my education at WCU to obtain my Master of Public Administration in Nonprofit Administration Concentration. With this degree, I plan to work within a non-profit and advocate for policy reforms that address the direct issues and complete meaningful work within our communities.

Rhianon Morgan, B.A. Sociology (2018)

Current position:  New Product Introduction (NPI) Project Manager at Keystone Technologies

Before transferring to West Chester University, I was a psychology major and then an early education major. I struggled to figure out what I wanted to do as I have always had an interest in current events, history and its intersection with the self. How we, as a society, navigate through the changes that occur on a societal level, not just a personal one. Eventually, I decided that a degree in sociology was the best fit for my interests.

I am currently employed as a product development administrator for a local lighting company. My role works with organizing data, conducting internal audits, and communicating with our global partners. My sociology degree has helped me to interpret and organize data to help the product development team access information and documents that are important to them.

My degree has taught me to understand different points of view, which helps me communicate throughout the company. Not all situations have the easiest solutions but with my background in sociology, I am better able to provide solutions to the problems that arise.

I appreciate the opportunity, memories, and the education that I received at West Chester University, as well as the professors who made a difference in my life and who continue to support me in my professional career.

Jenneh Barclay, B.A. Sociology (2021), M.S. Human Resources Management (2022), Graduate Certificate in Gerontology (2023)

Current position: CEO Jenneh Barclay Foundation & Eco Spring mineral water

As the CEO of Jenneh Barclay Foundation and Eco Spring Mineral Water, I can attest that my sociology degree from WCU has been instrumental in my professional success. The skills and knowledge I acquired through the program have empowered me to excel in various aspects of my career. I've developed a deep understanding of social structures, institutions, and relationships, which informs my approach to leadership, teamwork, and community engagement. My research and critical thinking skills enable me to make data-driven decisions and identify innovative solutions to real-world problems. Moreover, my sociology background has fostered empathy, cultural competence, and a profound appreciation for diverse perspectives, allowing me to build strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds. After graduating from WCU, I applied my sociology degree in various roles, including nonprofit work and entrepreneurship, culminating in the establishment of my own business, Eco Spring Mineral Water, in West Africa, Liberia. My sociology degree has provided a solid foundation for my professional journey, enabling me to navigate complex social systems, think critically, and drive meaningful impact in my chosen field.

Tamika Webb, B.A. Sociology (2012)

Current Position: Lead Leave and Disability Analyst, Optis - subsidiary of Enlyte

During my studies, I had the privilege of taking an introductory Sociology class with Professor Jacqueline Zalewski. It was in her class that I truly fell in love with the captivating, widely applicable world of Sociology. It offered a depth of understanding and practical applications that resonated with me. Little did I know that this newfound passion would shape my entire career trajectory.

The most valuable skill I gained from my Sociology degree is the ability to see situations from multiple angles. As I trek through the unpredictable terrain of HR equipped with my Sociological lens, I have charted the course for strategic decisions, navigated the busy intersection of FMLA/ADA and Workers' Compensation, and enacted policy changes that made waves. This lens also enables me to understand group dynamics, power structures, and the balance between individual needs and collective well-being, allowing me to make decisions that benefit everyone involved.

In the vast, ever-evolving landscape of HR, Sociology remains my guiding light and secret super power. It reminds me that behind every policy, performance review, and organizational change, there are real people with diverse experiences and needs. As I continue on my journey, I aspire to bridge the gap between theory and practice by creating a positive impact on the "human" experience within organizations. I highly recommend West Chester University's Sociology program!

Deannaliz Batista, B.A. in Sociology (2022)

Current Position: Emotional Support Instructional Assistant, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health

Since I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Sociology, I have settled into working as an Emotional Support Instructional Assistant in the city of Reading. I help middle school students, mainly 5th and 6th graders, by providing a safe space to share their feelings and helping them manage their behaviors to be able to rejoin their general education classes. My degree in sociology has helped immensely with my current job. Sociology has taught me how an environment affects the people living in it, and my students display many negative behaviors due to their environment. Many of my students have struggles commonly found in urban settings, such as home instability and lack of resources (clothes, hygiene products, etc.) Thanks to my degree, I am able to help my students attain the resources they need as well as mental health services.

Emmett Sanders, B.A. Sociology and B.A. Women’s and Gender Studies (2020)

Current Position: Media and Compliance Coordinator, Educational Data Systems Inc.

At WCU, I majored in Sociology and had a dual major in Women’s and Gender Studies. All the wonderful professors and courses equipped me with a deep understanding of how social forces shape individuals, communities, and the broader world around us. My education truly gave me all the experience I need to thrive in the workplace.

Today, I have been working for EDSI, a workforce development company, for the last two years. In my previous role as Community Outreach Coordinator, I utilized my knowledge of social systems and various disparities to provide the support and understanding needed to connect with people and help them through hard times. During my time with EDSI, I’ve also contributed to, developed, and facilitated many Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training courses for our staff both locally and company wide. I have just accepted a new role as Media and Compliance Coordinator where I will continue to work with DEI concepts, ensure our office’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and support with social media outreach and engagement.

I highly recommend anyone interested in sociology to consider taking a class, and if you’re like me, you’ll fall in love with it and complete the major!

Gabrielle Kellam-Henninger, B.A. Sociology (2022)

Current Position: Juvenile Justice Center Supervisor Northampton County; and 2nd LT in the United States Army Serving as a Military Police Officer.

As I’ve graduated and gone into the military as a police officer and transitioned now into a juvenile corrections officer I’ve seen the world through a sociological lense. A sociology major can be valuable in working in juvenile corrections because it provides an understanding of social structures, behaviors, and inequalities that can inform effective interventions and policies. It can also help professionals understand the root causes of juvenile delinquency and how to address them effectively. Additionally, sociology majors often develop strong research, critical thinking, and communication skills that are essential in the field of juvenile corrections.

As a sociology major, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities of human behavior and social structures. This understanding has allowed me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds in a meaningful way. By recognizing and respecting the unique perspectives and experiences of individuals, I have been able to build strong bonds with people from different cultural, socioeconomic, and racial backgrounds. My sociology major has taught me to approach interactions with empathy, curiosity, and open-mindedness, which has facilitated meaningful connections and friendships across various social boundaries. I love my major!

Caitie Naab, B.A Sociology (2014)

Current Position: Technical Planner, Facilities and Project Management - Pharmaceutical Industry

Since I graduated from West Chester with a B.A. in Sociology, I grew a profession working in facilities and project management. I currently work within the pharmaceutical industry. Documentation and risk assessment are key components within sociology, facilities/project management, and especially pharma. Having a background in sociology can bring a unique and broad perspective. The ability to analyze situations from various angles and ask insightful questions can enhance problem-solving and decision-making processes.

Sociology often involves the study of ethics and social responsibility. This background can be beneficial in the pharmaceutical industry, where ethical considerations are paramount, particularly in areas such as clinical research, patient care, and drug marketing. Moreover, my capacity to understand different viewpoints can contribute to effective communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution within my team and with external stakeholders.