Maureen Benjamins, B.A. 1998

Senior Research Fellow, Sinai Urban Health Institute – Chicago, IL

1998 Major: Sociology

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

"Two wonderful professors at Duke - Dr. Debbie Gold and Dr. Linda George - sparked my lifelong interest in the ways social factors influence health outcomes. I was also able to get involved in research as an undergrad, which laid the foundation for my subsequent studies."

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

"I would recommend that students keep an open mind for the types of careers they might have. Sociology gives you a perspective, and research skills, that are valuable in almost every industry. Don't be afraid to reach out to alumni (or others) for informational interviews to learn more about different jobs."

Maureen Benjamins