Written by Sara Hinds, photo courtesy Kari Gentzler
Getting outside of the textbook and learning from real-life experiences is important for both students and faculty. These hands-on, experiential learning opportunities allow for broadened horizons and connections with peers.
In late March, sociology professors Danelle DeBoer and Kari Gentzler attended the Pacific Sociological Association (PSA) annual conference in San Francisco. In previous years, like last year, the Midwest regional conference has been their destination.
Depending on budget and interest, students accompany DeBoer and Gentzler to present their undergraduate research. For the four seniors who went last year, it was an important step in their academic career.
“One of them got asked if this was her doctoral dissertation work,” Gentzler remembered. “So it’s validating for them to see that this hard work that they've put two semesters into is meaningful and appreciated.”
Presenting at professional conferences is an accomplishment they can bring up in job interviews or list on their resume that helps them stand out among other applicants, Gentzler said.
Faculty also present at conferences — which is why DeBoer and Gentzler traveled to the PSA conference this year. Their former colleague, Nathan Erickson, was presenting research he conducted at Doane.
They also toured the infamous Alcatraz prison and different neighborhoods in San Francisco with historical and sociological importance like Chinatown and North Beach.
While no Doane students attended the conference this year, the student experience was still top of mind for DeBoer and Gentzler.
For the long term, this involves enhancing courses to ensure sociology is relevant to students, no matter what career they pursue.
In the meantime, the professors can supplement lectures and discussions with their first-hand accounts from San Francisco.
Gentzler talked about her trip to Alcatraz and criminal justice systems in her intro to sociology class upon her return from San Francisco.
“Being able to have those experiences helps to humanize the big picture issues that we talk about,” Gentzler said.
And on a larger scale, DeBoer encourages her students to take advantage of travel opportunities at Doane — the university provides a $1,000 study abroad scholarship.
“Travel is important to experience other groups and people,” DeBoer said. “I think it helps make you more empathetic, understanding and curious.”
