Student Voices

A wide range of people enroll in our Sociology courses. Although some students do eventually decide to major in Sociology, most go on to study other things. Our students tell us, time and time again, that the knowledge they gained in our Sociology classes was helpful to them in other majors and careers. Indeed, Sociology is applicable to just about anything.

Here are some student comments about our classes:

Alicia ClaiborneAlicia Abdelhamed (Claiborne); BC Graduate (2005) 

Transferred to Seattle University; majored in Social Work (graduated 2007)

Currently working as an Employment Consultant for Developmentally Disabled Adults

“What I loved about taking sociology was the ability to explore and understand the meaning of racism, oppression, stigma, stereotypes, and what creates a self- fulfilling prophecy. This helped create a foundation for my future studies at Seattle University while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. Sociology also helped me through my identity crisis, which I have had throughout my life because I am biracial; sociology helped me realize it’s society’s issue of wanting to put me in a ‘box’ and not mine.

While enrolled at Seattle University I took advantage of getting involved with the surrounding Seattle Community as much as I could, such as taking service-learning classes, participant of Seattle University Social Work Club, Student Leader for the Common Good, and participated in various immersion trips. These activities were very empowering to me and helped me apply what I learned in my sociology class at BC as well as what I was learning at Seattle University.”

Lizzie ArnoldLizzie Arnold; BC Graduate (2014)

Attends NYU, majoring in Sociology and Journalism; intends to work in the field of journalism and/or human rights, specifically for the prevention of Human Trafficking

“After my first sociology class I was immediately hooked. The instructors at BC impressed me with their knowledge of and passion for the subject. Each class was a safe haven where you were able to freely discuss thoughts and ideas that most wouldn’t dare discuss regularly. Sociology opens your mind and eyes to what’s really going on in our world. It gives you a whole new perspective where one can clearly witness the injustices that occur in our daily lives. Being open about social justice issues is the only way changes are going to be made…and I believe sociology makes room for that change. There’s a lot going on in our world and the first step towards progress with any of it is recognizing the current situation in society and how it affects those involved. Sociology at BC has helped me realize that I, personally, want to be a part of this future progress.”

Alaina BlythAlaina Blyth: BC Graduate (2014)

Plans to explore interdisciplinary studies at Fairhaven College (Western Washington University)

“My very first class at Bellevue College was a sociology class. I was a very eager Running Start student, and I decided to dive right in. I immediately fell in love. These classes seemed to fill in the blanks that had been left after taking high school classes. It was in these spaces that I began to have the most important conversations. By senior year I had taken a variety of sociology classes, and there never seemed to a subject that I wasn’t interested in. This is largely due to the passion that is held by every professor I have ever had, but also due to my own passion that I have found at Bellevue. I hope to continue to study sociology and design my own major. Next year, I will be attending Fairhaven College of interdisciplinary studies at Western Washington University, where I will be studying Law, Diversity, Social Justice as well as Queer Studies and Diversity in Higher Education.”

Gianni CalderonGianni Calderon

Intends to travel the world after graduating

“Sociology has brought a new sense of awareness regarding my outlook towards life. Sociology has helped look more objectively at the society in which we live. Understanding how to interact with people from diverse backgrounds and upbringings has benefited me. Being able to distinguish between a personal level and societal level in sociology prepares me for change. Classes like Sex and Sexuality and Society of Religion has shaped ideas that were unclear to me before. Taking Sociology is an eye opening experience and valuable tool that will apply to my everyday life. I encourage everyone to take at least one class of sociology. You won’t regret it.

After Bellevue College I plan to travel around the world for a couple of years. Depending of where I’m going, I will study every aspect of the society: the culture, language, education, politics, religion, and philosophies. The knowledge attained from the countries will help me better understand the people and their beliefs. After my travels, I plan to study education and become a professor.  Philosophy, sociology, and psychology are my interest of studies. I want to give back the knowledge I once received from my teachers to my peers.”

Jaycee ChanJaycee Chan; BC Graduate (2008)

Transferred to UW-Seattle; majored in Social Work; attended Columbia University (NY) for graduate school (received M.S. in Social Work); currently working as a social worker

“What I loved about taking sociology classes was that they changed my perspective on the world. Things that I learned in class I could constantly apply in my daily life. There were times that the concepts introduced in class challenged my own values or beliefs, and it pushed me to really think about what I believe in and why I believe in this way. To me, sociology class is not only a class, but it is about exploring my identity and seeing this world in a whole different perspective.

I decided to major in social work because I passionately believe people deserve to be respected and should have their own rights acknowledged, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, class, etc. One of the many great things I learned from sociology is to realize my own bias, judgment or stereotypes against a particular group of people. Once I developed this self awareness, I can always remind myself to change these biases, judgments and stereotypes in order to become a more competent social worker.”

David ChenDavid Chen; BC Graduate (2009)

Transferred to UW-Seattle; double major in sociology and English; Professional writer

“Studying sociology at BC has helped me to see the world in a different light. It has helped to answer some of the many questions I ponder regarding race, class, and gender, as well as provide a stronger understanding of social dynamics. The sociology classes I have taken have all been very fun and engaging. I enjoy the readings, lectures, and group discussions. It has been a very casual, but also intellectually stimulating experience. Sociology has taught me a lot and I hope to eventually use it to contribute to a more livable, just world for everyone.”

Jeff ChouJeff Chou; BC Graduate (2007); transferred to UW-Bothell

Currently working as a Customs and Border Protection Officer for Homeland Security

“The sociology classes I took at BC helped my communication skills tremendously. Sociology taught me how to communicate with people who may have different backgrounds than me; it also helped me see things through their eyes, not just mine. It opened my eyes and my mind in a way – I can now think outside the box. I loved taking sociology classes at BC because of the Instructors, the diverse group of students, and the way the materials were taught. And no matter what my schedule, there was always a sociology class I could take!”

Chengying DengChengying Deng; International Student and Graduate of BC (2007)

Transferred to UW-Seattle; majored in Accounting (graduated 2009); Works as an accountant at Deloitte

“After participating in a sociology class, I gained an insight into the inequalities that exist within our society today. Additionally, the intensive reading and writing required by the class helped to improve my English comprehension skills. Through my participation in the class, I have a better understanding of how others may perceive me as both a person of Chinese heritage and as a Woman. This allows me to challenge any possible misconceptions and enhance my role within the society around me.”

Janine Denney-MazzilliJanine Denney-Mazzilli; BC graduate

Plans to major in English at the University of Washington

Intern at Seattle Public Utilities

“One of my favorite things about sociology is how engaged the class environment is. The feeling of truly wanting to learn about society and the world is unlike any other. Almost every topic learned in class is actually applicable to everyday life, so sociology feels like preparation for the future. Sociology has opened my eyes to the many diverse experiences of people within my own community, and all over the world, that I never really thought about before.

After earning 80 credits through Running Start, I will be attending the University of Washington to major in English and something environmental and minor in American Sign Language, but I’m still considering my options. My current plan is to go to law school following graduation from UW.”

Chehalis DormanChehalis Dorman; BC graduate

Attends the University of Washington School of Law

“Sociology identifies and analyzes what makes our society tick. It informs us about how institutions affect us and how we can enact change ourselves. Knowledge is power and sociology gives people the vocabulary and awareness to understand and talk about the big picture. It answers the hard questions that everyone else seems to ignore.

I like sociology because it is informing, empowering, and actually fun to learn about. Regardless of what field you are studying, sociology gives a perspective that is useful and applicable to all paths of life.

After Bellevue, I start a new position as the Education Director’s Assistant at the Snoqualmie Tribe. Then in the Fall I am set to begin classes at the University of Washington studying some form of mathematics as a major and sociology as a minor.”

Kirstin HanKirstin Han; BC Graduate

Transferred to Seattle University; majoring in Psychology

Intends to become a Clinical Psychologist

“Sociology has helped in me in countless ways; from academia to conversations with friends, I have become so much more perceptive to social stigmas and how they are applied – not only in the U.S, but around the world. As I love to travel, I think that one of the biggest ways sociology has helped me is to make me aware of social and cultural situations and sensitivities, that I might be cognizant of my surroundings and not just an ignorant tourist. I loved taking sociology at BC because not only did i have an awesome teacher, it really helped me to step out of myself and see situations in our world from other perspectives. I was forced to face “touchy” issues like sex, race and gender, and learned to understand and deal with them instead of sweeping them under a rug.”

Dana HubanksDana Hubanks; Graduate of BC (2009)

Transferred to Whitman College; major in Sociology/ English

Considering a career in journalism, poetry, social work, or human rights work

“Taking sociology at BC changed my entire world. Every day in class, we were forced to look at our society in an entirely new way, and because of this, I grew as a student and as a person. The sociology courses at BC also allow students to learn about certain harsh, taboo issues that are often times ignored. Above all else, I loved how the professors and subject matter abandon social stigmas in order to offer reality and honesty. The sociology class I took at BC (SOC 256) was quite possibly the most valuable class I have ever taken. Although I never thought of myself as a close-minded person, this class helped to open my mind even further. I discovered how irrelevant the term ‘normal’ is in our world. Most of all, I discovered that racial, class, and gender issues are weaved so tightly into the fabric of our culture that most people do not even notice it. After being made aware of these truths, it has become much easier to make sense of the world around us. Overall, sociology helped me become a more understanding and accepting person.”

 Jyoti Minhas REVISEDJyoti Minhas; Graduate of BC (2014)

Transferred to UW-Tacoma; majoring in Healthcare Leadership with a minor in Human Rights

Intends to be a Hospital Administrator

“I took a sociology course during my first quarter at BC, and to this day, it continues to be one of my favorite classes that I have ever taken. Sociology is not only applicable to our daily lives, but it allows us to challenge our thoughts, opinions and perceptions about the world around us. Every class session encouraged active participation and interactive learning, and it allowed me to effectively analyze how society has influenced my life and interactions with those around me. From the sociology courses at BC, I broadened my perspectives and gained insight about the various ways in which society and culture influence my daily life. I strongly advise any and all students attending BC to take at least one sociology course. It is well worth the time, effort and resources!

Upon graduating BC, I decided to major in Healthcare Leadership at the University of Washington Tacoma campus because I wanted to make a difference in our local area by providing better quality care and access to hospitals in our local communities. In addition, I decided to minor in human rights after taking sociology courses at BC and discovering my interest in social health and justice, along with international health and humanitarian relief.”

HediyehHediyeh Mohajerjasbi; Graduate of BC (2008)

Transferred to UW; double majored in Sociology and English

Attended law school at Pepperdine University (received J.D. 2013)

“Sociology at BC was great! I have to admit I never thought of sociology as a field of study but the professors were very knowledgeable and diverse in their teaching methods and made the information really interesting. Once I got started, I only wanted to learn more about the environment around me! Sociology greatly influenced my perspective about the world around me – how I look at people, their interactions, problems in the world, and why they exist in the first place. This is actually really great for me because for as long as I can remember I have wanted to become a lawyer, to help make a difference in the community around me, and I never knew that sociology could help me achieve that goal!

I would recommend the sociology program at BC to anyone and everyone. Sociology is a field of study that truly pertains to every one of us.”

Chris MonierChris Monier; BC Graduate (2008)

Transferred to Western Washington University; majored in Sociology (minor in Criminology)

Intends to work in law enforcement

“What I loved most about sociology at BC is it forced you to take a look at everything in our society that we do without thinking, and makes you ask ‘why?’ I think the best example of this that I have heard took place on the second day of Intro to Sociology when the instructor shook my hand, then asked me why I grabbed her hand and shook it up and down. It kinda blew my mind for a couple days. I believe that sociology has helped me greatly. It’s challenging and engaging coursework helped a lot in my development of new study skills, plus its emphasis on group work helped me learn how to work together in a group more efficiently in order to achieve a common goal. The coursework itself gave me a different perspective on the world and how it works. We, as a society, never really think about how or why our society works unless the information is put right in front of us. Sociology puts that information right in front of you. You may not always like what you see, but everything you see is valid.”

Mackenzie OrendurffMackenzie Orendurff; BC graduate

Transferred to Fairhaven College (Western Washington University) to major in Sociology

“I am interested in sociology because it addresses the systematic oppression of all people with the intent of doing something about it. Issues of gender, race, class, sexuality, and ability affect all of our lives every day whether we are on the side of oppression or privilege. I am still in the process of recognizing and understanding the privilege that I have as well as the oppression that I face. I hope to become an ally to groups I do not have membership in as well and advocating for my own communities. Studying sociology at Bellevue College has given me the knowledge to begin doing so. After Bellevue College I will be attending Fairhaven College at Western Washington University and studying sociology. I am interested in using media to educate people about issues of social justice and, hopefully, creating social change!”

Matt P JonesMatthew P-Jones; BC graduate

“Hi, my name is Matt Jones, and I started at Bellevue College since 2010. I took four sociology classes at Bellevue College, and I learned a lot about the deeper meaning of the world, and how people interact with each other. I learned that people don’t even pay attention to or are not aware of their surroundings. I learned a lot in these four different classes: 1) in Introduction to Sociology, I learned about norms and breaking norms, and that the media has hugely affected people; 2) In Sex and Sexualities class, I learned how sexuality is portrayed in the media; 3) in Race & Ethnicity, I learned that everyone is blind about race and that race happens and nobody sees it; and 4) in Children & Youth, I learned how parents and children interact. So, overall, being in SOCIOLOGY class, I learned a lot, and I AM HAPPY TO BE IN SOCIOLOGY CLASS.”

Sean RegmiSean Regmi; BC Graduate (2007)

Transferred to Washington State University; majored in Management Information Systems (MIT)

Intends to pursue a music career (and be the best ever to touch a mic), with MIT as a backup plan

“I thoroughly enjoyed taking all the Sociology classes that were available at BC. They opened my eyes even further to the truth of the world. I learned that you can’t be judgmental, and you have to see people for who they are through their scope. The Sociology Instructor I had taught in a way which keeps you hooked on the information, and till this day, while I may have forgotten term names, I have not forgotten any of the concepts. Sociology has helped me see through other people’s eyes, and I can relate to their point of view. A lot of time in business, there are huge cultural clashes, which prevent parties from having productive outcomes. I have learned how not to be ethnocentric to the fullest extent I can, and this will definitely help me.”

Stephanie SeekStephanie Seek; BC graduate (2009)

Transferred to the UW

Works at Seattle Humane and PACE Engineers, Inc.

“Sociology has changed the way I see society as a whole; I can’t help but watch and analyze the interaction between different groups of people. Sociology has made me more aware of what goes on below the surface of our culture, and it has made me a more conscientious consumer. Taking sociology classes at BC allowed me to explore areas of society I didn’t previously acknowledge. They also allowed me to be a more creative writer and challenge what we’re often told to think.”

Mergim XhemailiMergim Xhemaili; BC graduate

Works in Real Estate

“Going into sociology, I wasn’t really sure what exactly we would be learning in that class. I thought it would be a class in which we learned about different cultures in different societies. Even though, that was somewhat true, sociology had so much more to offer than that. Sociology was a very interesting subject and I learned a lot from taking the sociology classes I took. I plan to take more sociology classes in the future at Bellevue College. My future plans after Bellevue College consist of transferring to UW and double majoring in sociology and psychology. If I had an option to finish everything up here at Bellevue College, that would be my #1 choice. After finishing up and receiving my bachelor’s degree, I plan to either proceed my career in law enforcement, or go into marketing and/or advertising.”

Last Updated April 26, 2022