Carlos Medina is the first of three students to earn Sociology’s new Certificate in Applied Social Research. Carlos graduated this fall with his degree in Sociology and a concentration in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Congratulations, Carlos!
How did you decide to study Sociology?
As a first-generation Latino student, I wanted to understand why certain challenges felt so common in my community and how they were connected to larger systems. Sociology gave me the tools to break down and analyze those patterns, helping me find ways to address inequities. It also helped me realize that the struggles I faced weren’t just mine—they were shared by so many others with similar backgrounds. That realization pushed me to not only learn but also educate others about how we can create real, meaningful change.
Why did you choose CSU?
I chose CSU because it offered a level of diversity that I didn’t see at other universities in Colorado. The community spaces at El Centro were especially meaningful—they weren’t just symbolic but actively utilized, which made me feel like I belonged. Growing up in Westminster, I also wanted to move away from home to gain independence while staying close enough to maintain strong connections with my family. CSU provided the perfect mix of opportunity, support, and community.
What skills have you learned and how do you plan to apply them?
As a sociology major, I’ve picked up a lot of analytical and critical thinking skills, along with a deeper understanding of how complex social systems work. These aren’t just useful in sociology—they apply to a lot of different fields like data analysis, research, and even public policy. Earning my Applied Social Research Certificate has given me hands-on experience, and I’m excited to take these skills into a career in data analytics. I’m looking forward to using what I’ve learned to help organizations make better decisions and create positive change.
What clubs/organizations are you involved in? (on campus or off)
On campus, I mainly connected with El Centro, where I spent a lot of time doing homework and sometimes joined in on their workshops. It became a space where I felt part of a community. Outside of school, I worked as a manager at a restaurant to support myself while living in Fort Collins. Juggling work and school was tough at times, but it taught me how to manage my time and adapt to different situations. Now that I’m about to graduate, I’m excited to move into a professional career and finally put all the skills I’ve been learning in sociology and data analytics to use.
A favorite class or professor and why:
One of my favorite professors was Pat Hastings. He introduced me to R Studio, which really sparked my interest in data analysis. His classes were engaging and made complex topics easier to understand. Thanks to his teaching, I gained the confidence and skills to pursue a career in data analytics. I’m grateful for how he made learning both fun and insightful.
A favorite CSU memory:
What I’ll always remember most about my time at CSU is how it helped me discover my passion and learn more about who I am. When I first started, I was undeclared in STEM and didn’t really know where I was headed. CSU gave me the chance to explore, and through that, I found my love for social research. That journey of figuring out my path and growing both academically and personally has been one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience.
What are you pursuing after graduation?
After graduation, I’m really looking forward to starting a career in data analytics. I’m excited to take what I’ve learned—like analyzing data and understanding social systems—and use it to make a difference. Whether it’s in research, public policy, or business analytics, I’m eager to find a role where I can keep growing, tackle meaningful challenges, and make an impact.
Anything additional you’d like to share?
One thing I’d like to share is that I pursued the Applied Social Research Certificate because I wanted to build on my skills and better prepare myself for the future. It’s been such a valuable experience that’s really enhanced my knowledge in research and data analysis. I’m excited to take what I’ve learned and apply it to a career in data analytics, where I can make a real impact using both the practical tools and the insights I’ve gained. Even though I haven’t yet worked in the field I’m passionate about, I saw the Applied Social Research Certificate as a way to set myself apart and become more competitive for future career opportunities. It’s helped me develop essential skills that will make me a stronger candidate and give me the confidence to step into data analytics roles. I’m excited to use everything I’ve learned to kickstart my career and make an impact. combine these.