Social Sciences
Social scientists study all aspects of societies, from historical events, to the relationships and interactions between individuals and groups. Their research and analysis suggests approaches to social, economic, environmental, and other issues influencing society today and give us a better understanding of our past. Social scientists can be found in most occupational fields, due to the transferability of their skills. They require excellent research skills, statistical competencies, inductive logic, solid writing and (often) presentation skills, and a capacity to acknowledge the ambiguities and uncertainties that result from studying the interrelationships of people. In short, social scientists possess highly marketable skills sought after by employers in numerous career fields.
Getting Started
- Know your interests and professional goals
Take time to reflect on your interests: What about your major appeals to you? What do you want a typical work day to look like? What type of work environment do you want to work in? Where do you see yourself in five years? Ten years? What do you enjoy doing? What type of lifestyle do you want to live? How do you plan to achieve your goals? You can set up an appointment (203.432.0800) to meet with a UCS career counselor if you would like guidance in this process.
- Research and become familiar with the career field you are interested in
Gather information about the types of job positions, trends and current issues in the field, work environments, professional associations, salary & benefits, types of employers, and advanced degrees. The links below provide background information, web resources, and typical job titles to get you started.
- Connect (network) with professionals in the field
Network with professionals already working in the field. Contacting Alumni through the Yale Career Network (YCN) is a great resource to start in this process. The YCN is a database of thousands of Yale alumni currently working around the world, who have volunteered to post their contact information for networking purposes. Other resources for networking include: conferences, career fairs, special events, professional associations, and professors.
- Gain firsthand experiences by volunteering and interning at organizations
Volunteer opportunities and internships are excellent ways to put into practice the skills and knowledge you have been acquiring during your years at Yale. Gaining “real world” experience will enable you to develop and grow as a professional. The connections you make through your experience may also serve as contacts in your professional network.
- Create a resume that represents your interests and abilities
Create a resume during your first year of college. Continue to add and build your resume during your remaining time at Yale. The UCS Guide will direct you on format and content concerns. You may also schedule a 30 minute appointment with a counselor (203.432.0800) to critique your resume, or stop in during open hours and sign up for a fifteen minute critique.
Social Scientists Employers
- Social service agencies, both governmental and private
- Museums, zoos, and other public education institutions
- Ethnic, cultural, and immigrant organizations
- Elementary and secondary schools
- Health care agencies
- Foreign Service and foreign aid agencies
- Businesses with international and cross-cultural dimensions
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