PhD in Sociology

Fanni Farago

Describe your current area of research and/or your academic interests. 

In the broader context of growing inequality, questioning the value of higher education, and calls for more institutional accountability for student employability outcomes, university-based career services are at the forefront of many higher education constituents’ minds. Through 44 in-depth interviews with career services directors and practitioners, my dissertation is the first study of its kind to produce sociological insights on how these professionals are perceiving and navigating the evolving organization and scope of their work amid financial austerity and related structural challenges in U.S. higher education. 

Why did you choose George Mason to pursue your studies?

I was drawn to George Mason University by its distinctive PhD program in public and applied sociology. This program resonates deeply with me because it encourages broad thinking and equips me to translate my methodological and conceptual skills to tackle a wide array of real-world issues and challenges.

Are there faculty or staff members who have made a difference thus far during your George Mason career?  

I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Professors Blake Silver and James Witte in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. Both have been exceptional mentors, guiding me through the intricacies of academic publishing and conference presentations while helping me hone my skills in both qualitative and quantitative research.

How do you hope to use your degree and studies in the future?

Broadly, I am passionate about translating research into insights that help social mission-driven organizations understand and improve the impact of their programs, services, or products. As such, I aim to leverage my training and degree to drive research and evaluation in educational, nonprofit, and other social innovation enterprises.

How will the Dean’s Challenge scholarship support your studies?

This scholarship is an invaluable source of support, allowing me to dedicate my time and attention to completing my dissertation over the summer, and ultimately, my degree by December 2025. I am deeply grateful to the donors for their generosity and commitment to supporting George Mason students.