Connecting Professional Identity and Sociological Careers: What Sociologists Say About Professional Pathways

Session Submission Type: Pavilion Talks

Description

What does it mean to “be a sociologist” in today’s evolving career landscape? This Pavilion talk shares findings from an NSF-funded qualitative study of 141 sociologists—undergraduates, graduate students, practitioners working in applied settings and departmental and disciplinary leaders. We discuss how professional identity develops across academic and non-academic contexts and how these narratives shape career decisions. Designed for department leaders, faculty, graduate students and practitioners, this session offers actionable strategies to strengthen identity formation, mentoring and career readiness. Paired with ASA’s Career Center analysis, it bridges data and narrative to inform practical steps for building resilient departments and preparing graduates for meaningful careers beyond academia.

Sub Unit

• Pavilion Talks

Presenters

• Catherine Mobley, Clemson University

• Chloe E. Bird, Tufts Medical Center