“It would not be an exaggeration to say that doing my PhD at Carleton changed my life. I came into the program like many PhD students: bright-eyed, but ultimately insecure of my skills. By the time I finished, I had numerous successful publications in top-tier journals and was in the process of transforming my dissertation into a book.
From the beginning of our doctoral seminar, through comprehensive exams, and dissertation research, Carleton’s faculty not only did a fantastic job preparing us to be researchers, but also trained us in more practical matters, like how to get a job post-PhD, and how to be a good teacher.
As one of the oldest sociology departments in Canada, Carleton’s storied history made me feel a part of something much larger than myself. With a sizeable faculty, graduate students can choose from a wide range of supervisors with diverse interests. The department is decidedly student-centered, allowing students to make important decisions about their own education, such as how they complete their comprehensive exams. There are numerous opportunities to present and publish your research, and the department’s stature is reflected in the amazing speakers they attract. The ability to specialize my PhD in political economy through the Institute of Political Economy was also a huge draw.
On a more personal level, the department’s collegiality was apparent from day one. It was not uncommon to have professors join intramural sports teams, or head to the pub with you after class to continue theoretical and methodological debates. The administrative staff are top-notch and were an invaluable asset when applying for complex grant proposals. To this day, I am friends with numerous people I met during my time at Carleton. To me, it represents the absolute gold standard of what all departments should aspire to be.”
