Mark Laumakis, B.A. 1992

1992 Major: Sociology and Psychology

How has being a Sociology graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"The habits of mind developed as a Sociology major have informed my thinking about the world. I ultimately received a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, but my Sociology background still has an important impact on my ability to think about macro-level variables that impact individuals and their behavior."

What advice would you give students in Duke's Sociology programs? 

"Be curious. Focus less on what job you are targeting and more on the generalizable skills the will benefit you in a variety of careers. Thinking critically and having fine-tuned analytical skills, particularly in the management and analysis of data, will distinguish you from others and make you attractive in the job marketplace."