Name: Robin Gary

Class Year: 2008

Majors: Sociology/Women's Studies

Current Career: I am a full-time student and work as an assistant in the English department. In fall, I start graduate school at UNC-CH in the sociology PhD program. So, for the foreseeable future my career is professional student!

What You're Up to Now: I am completing my senior research project which combines sociology and women’s studies in a content analysis of Black women in media images. I’m also taking four other classes in addition to my research. I’ll be presenting my research findings at the sociology conference in Virginia and at Meredith’s Celebrating Student Achievement. I’m also looking forward to participating at the NWSA Conference in Cincinnati this June.

Quote: Be where your feet are!

Q: What do you think is the most important aspect of a women's studies degree?

A: I love the flexibility of a women’s studies degree. You are able to tailor the curriculum to fit your particular interests while also enjoying the core/required classes which look at a variety of women’s issues locally and globally. I would say the most important aspect is the way a women’s studies degree will prepare you for entering society with not only the knowledge needed to succeed individually, but also the desire to help make needed changes for women everywhere.

Q: What experiences such as internships, research, course work, etc. stood out for you and what were the benefits of these programs for you?

A: The thing that has been really exciting for me is being able to combine my interests in sociology and women’s studies in my senior research project. I have also really enjoyed the religion classes that are cross-listed with women’s studies -- so much so that I ended up adding a religion minor to my double major. I found it a truly liberating experience to be able to reread stories from the bible from a feminist perspective. I strongly encourage interested students to take Dr. Grimes’ Women in the Bible class!

Q: In retrospect, what portion of the women's studies program has had the most impact on your life?

A: I have enjoyed all of my women’s studies classes, but I think the greatest impact has been from my study of women from all walks of life and different countries around the world. Seeing and understanding some of the global issues that women face has made me profoundly grateful for being born in this country. It has also generated my desire for creating positive change. And finally, I have learned not to fear the "F" word -- I am a Feminist and proud of it!

Q: What was the most fun about the women's studies program?

A: I have had the most fun just socializing with my fellow women’s studies students and professors in class and outside of class. I think the best experience is yet to come when I will join Jessi, Melissa, Dr. Shapiro at the NWSA conference in June. I am tremendously excited about the event and look forward to meeting one of my idols, Patricia Hill Collins.

Q: What would you suggest to other Meredith College students interested in taking women's studies?

A: I think every woman at Meredith College should take at least Intro to Women’s Studies to improve understanding of the gender issues in today’s society. Also, be sure to check out all the cross-listed classes; you may already be on the way to a Women’s Studies minor or double major and not even know it! This is a wonderful program!