Career Opportunities and Work Life

Skills You'll Need

Salary Ranges

The Classroom Experience

Certificate & Degree Options

"The goal of the sociology transfer program is to teach about cultural diversity, and to awaken students to the culture this world has to offer," says Lake Michigan College instructor and transfer program coordinator Dr. Michele Stone. "I want to give students a wider vision of the world."

"It is important for students to understand that they are part of a larger society, and society is filled with patterns. These patterns have structure and meaning. Students must use critical and logical thinking to interpret these patterns and meanings in order to best benefit themselves and their futures."

Expectations and Skills Taught
Attendance is critical for complete learning. "Education needs to be your priority," says Dr. Stone. "I encourage students to take advantage of class time to ask questions and participate in discussions."

"I expect student to use the knowledge they've learned from the text book as well as their own knowledge of their culture to explore new, unknown cultures. Exploring the unknown cultures often helps students better understand their own culture. This understanding is invaluable," says Dr. Stone.

Grades are based on essays, exams, critical writing pieces, writing assignments, quizzes, projects, and presentations.

Some of the sociology courses give you practical experience in the sociology field. By shadowing a professional in the field, you are given the opportunity to see first-hand how your classroom knowledge will be utilized in the real working world.

Technology in the Classroom
Technology is used in every class. PowerPoint presentations, Library resources, the Internet and materials available on Blackboard - the College's instructional Intranet - play an important role in the learning process.

Getting the Most from the Program
Dr. Stone suggests reading the assignments before class. "If students prepare for their class, they might be able to have their questions answered while in lecture. If questions aren't answered in lecture, it is important not to walk away confused. "Ask me questions," says Dr. Stone. "Students should feel free to use me as a resource."

It is also important to stay in contact with your advisor. She can help make sure you are on track towards transferring or graduation and if necessary, your plan can be revised to adjust for any circumstances that may change your available time to complete the program.

You should also take the time to become involved in the full college experience. Meeting other students and taking advantage of campus clubs will make your class work more meaningful and help you build a network of peers with whom to share ideas.