Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP)

What have you found most beneficial about the specific degree program you completed at McMaster?

My degree in social psychology focused on studying the relationship between individuals and society. It helped me identify how people behave in varying social settings. Not only does this benefit me in navigating my personal relationships it can be applied to work and professional settings too. Given that relationships permeate in any situation, I found my degree applicable to all aspects of my life.

In your opinion, what is the value of a Social Sciences degree?

A social sciences degree in my opinion really educates recipients on how to navigate the human experience in an increasingly diverse and globalized world. By focusing on the intricacies of the social/lived experience, a social sciences graduate is better equipped to be socially aware and understand how our differences can unite us.

What advice would you give to a current Social Sciences student who is exploring career options?

For social sciences students who are currently exploring career options, I would highly recommend pursuing experiential opportunities to enhance their profile through real-work experiences! A good start would be enrollment in the SOCSCI 2EL0 career course; while also exploring internships, volunteering or other hands-on opportunities. I also recommend connecting with past alumni for career advice!

How did completing the SOCSCI 2EL0 career course shape your career planning or your post-graduation journey?

By completing the SOCSCI 2EL0 career course, it helped me better understand how to create my own value proposition and market my skills to future employers. I was able to learn industry trends for career planning that I still practice today!

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Leader

What have you found most beneficial about the specific degree program you completed at McMaster?

My degree has allowed me to understand how people behave based on the values from the religions and cultures they have been surrounded by. As a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Social Impact Lead, I use the knowledge I have gained from my degree to create programs and processes to create inclusive environments where everyone is able to thrive and be successful.

In your opinion, what is the value of a Social Sciences degree?

Social sciences degrees allow you to be a versatile professional in the hiring market. We are taught to be critical thinkers, effective communicators, team players and more. Whether you are in sociology, economics, anthropology, or religious studies we are all taught through our lectures and assignments how to research and be analytical which is a transferable skill in any job.

What advice would you give to a current Social Sciences student who is exploring career options?

Make sure you attend career fairs, company info sessions, and network! It may be nerve-racking to attend these types of events but, it will help you a lot in your career search. The reason why I work at my current company is because I went to a career fair and stayed connected with the recruiter who I had met at this event.

Research Manager

What have you found most beneficial about the specific degree program you completed at McMaster?

The degree programs I completed at McMaster taught me to see the world through a socio-cultural lens and apply theory to understand past, present, and future. Seeing the world through this lens has immensely shaped my thinking and approach to every facet of my life (both in my work and personal life) and has deepened my connection to understanding peoples’ experiences and supporting their diverse needs.

In your opinion, what is the value of a Social Sciences degree?

I’ve always had a curious mind and during my time as a Social Sciences student at McMaster, I was given the tools to take my curiosity and build it into a career path. In many of my courses, we were not only learning social theory, but also given practical projects and opportunities to examine specific issues and build highly sought-after critical thinking skills to address inequities in social determinants of health. This is when I discovered my passion for understanding experiences of food insecurity and health outcomes in our local communities. The value of a Social Sciences degree certainly sets you apart from other job candidates, but also changes your vision of the world and how you interact within it.

What advice would you give to a current Social Sciences student who is exploring?career options?

The main advice I can give is to take chances on opportunities while you’re a student – now is the time! Volunteering is one great way to test out different career paths while gaining amazing experience and building your network. I volunteered at a non-profit for most of my undergrad and found this experience so enriching! Also, if there’s classes that you are inspired by, connect with the Professor, and show your interest – they often love to share more about what it is they do and how they got there! It’s also never too early to connect with the career offices on campus and learn more about what services are offered to support your ongoing career planning.

How did receiving an Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) shape your career planning or your post-graduation journey?

Receiving an Undergraduate Student Research Award at the end of my undergraduate studies was the best way to end my amazing time at McMaster and a culmination of all my learnings coming together. The USRA gave me the opportunity to explore a career in community-based research and gave me hands-on experience with starting and completing a research project. Through this experience, I gained knowledge and was able to build my interpersonal skills and confidence to lead future research projects in the non-profit sector where I currently work as a researcher.

Data Science and AI Consultant

In your opinion, what is the value of a Social Sciences degree?

Earning a degree in Economics at McMaster provided a strong foundation in analytical and critical thinking, which has been invaluable throughout my career. The knowledge and skills I gained have been instrumental in transitioning across various roles in data science, AI, and consulting. A Social Sciences degree, particularly in fields like Economics, equips students with a unique lens to understand complex societal and economic dynamics—skills that are highly adaptable and valuable across industries.

What advice would you give to current Social Sciences students exploring career options?

My advice would be to stay open-minded about the application of their skills. While economics and other social sciences might traditionally lead to roles in policy or finance, today’s job market values these skills in tech, consulting, and beyond. Practical experience, such as internships or projects, is key to bridging the gap between academia and real-world application. In my own career, learning technical skills like programming and data analysis was essential and greatly expanded my opportunities. I would also recommend networking with alumni and attending relevant industry events to gain exposure to various career paths.

What was the most valuable piece of career advice you have received?

One piece of advice that has stuck with me is the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. Technology and industry needs evolve quickly, and staying curious and willing to learn has allowed me to transition smoothly between roles in different sectors. I’d also stress the value of developing both technical and interpersonal skills. Being able to communicate data-driven insights effectively is just as crucial as having the analytical skills to generate them?

Health, Safety & Labour Relations Specialist

What have you found most beneficial about the specific degree program you completed at McMaster?

I credit the totality of my career to the placement option that was offered during my fourth year of my Labour Studies degree program. I did not get placed in the placement I wanted, and I took a placement out of town, where I knew no one, in a sector that I had absolutely no experience. My placement challenged me to go out of my comfort zone, meet new people, who do kinds of work I had never even contemplated. By the end of the academic year and my placement, I was a changed person: I saw how the laws and practices we study for in the theoretical classes of our degree are made and I met the people who made them; I listened to stories of oppression from people who identify with equity deserving groups, and watched with a front seat as they fought for change; and, I sat with other workers from the receptionist, to the president of the organization and saw how both roles are vital in keeping the organization running. Ultimately, the organization I did my placement with hired me and I have worked with them for over a decade.

In your opinion what is the value of a Social Sciences Degree?

The social sciences studies theoretically who we are as humans and what we do with our lives. From studying about why people pray, to how people work, to how we functionally make our world better; the study of social sciences is broad, yet foundational for every sector of work. Having a Social Sciences degree prepares you for working with other people, and that is a vital skill-set for any career, in any sector.

What advice would you give to a current Social Sciences student who is exploring career options?

I have three important mantras I use myself when navigating my career: The first is to always look through a door of opportunity that has been offered to you. Sit on a committee you’ve been invited to, have lunch with that coworker, apply for that job even though you might not fit all of the criteria. You don’t have to take every opportunity, but at least investigate it and see if it is something you could be interested in. The second mantra I live by is to always lead with kindness. Many people advise networking to young professionals – which is great – but, you will meet hundreds of people and you may not (and they may not!) remember your name. They key is to be kind: ask deeper questions (than just their thoughts on the weather!), and make a conversation that they will remember for at least the rest of the rest of the day. My last mantra is to jump into your career without fear. New experiences, new people, new places are scary but if you are passionate about the work you are doing you will amaze yourself with who you become if you jump in.

Banking Industry Leader

In your opinion, what is the value of a Social Sciences degree?

McMaster provided me a well-rounded and enriching academic experience! The ability to explore courses outside of your main field of study can indeed provide valuable skills and insights. My background in Economics, combined with knowledge from Psychology courses, gave me a unique perspective on both market dynamics and human behavior helping me become a leader and have the insight to understanding team dynamics.

What was your first ‘real’ job after graduating and how did it lead you to where you are now?

My initial employment was at a local bank branch as a management trainee. This position afforded me the opportunity to engage with clients directly, develop expertise in various Bank products, create customized solutions to meet client needs and learn people management skills. The experience of learning from the ground up was instrumental in shaping my career trajectory. It is essential to remain inquisitive, embrace technological advancements, and continually seek opportunities for growth and development.

What advice would you give to a current Social Sciences student who is exploring career options?

Employers value well-rounded candidates who can demonstrate a variety of skills. Learn how to connect the dots and articulate the skills you’ve gained from different experiences. Understand the implications of your actions and how they impact the team. Remember, every experience is valuable and contributes to your overall skill set. Don’t underestimate the importance of the skills you’ve gained from various roles and activities! If you need more specific advice or examples, ask for advice from your Careers Team.