Posted on May 13, 2025 by Amanda Cerreto
Sarah Jumper is graduating with a BA in sociology. She plans to attain a master's degree, and eventually, a Ph.D! Learn about her switch from political science to sociology and how it changed her for the better.
What made you decide to attend UTSA?
I chose UTSA for convenience at first. It was in my hometown, and I wanted to get started on my undergraduate journey. However, it quickly became an incredible decision for me. I love the Sociology and Demography program, and I’m so glad I decided to pursue this field.
What made you choose your major?
I came here as a Political Science major. In my first semester, I took a course called Individual and Society with Tamara Casso. I started learning what sociology was, what I could do with it, and how much it aligned with my own passions. In the following semester, I had the opportunity to work with Tamara Casso as her Teacher’s Assistant. This changed my entire course of action in college. With the help of her and Favor Campbell, I changed my major to sociology and plan to become a professor after completing my master's and PhD programs.
What has been your favorite moment/experience at UTSA?
Becoming a TA changed the trajectory of my time at UTSA. I fell in love with teaching and helping students reach their fullest potential. This has been an extraordinary experience, and I’ve been able to make connections with students and faculty that I’ll never forget. I cannot go without once again mentioning the mentorship of Tamara Casso. She has been a wonderful part of my time at UTSA that I'll truly never forget.
How did your degree shape your future goals?
Changing my major to sociology has brightened every part of my learning process. I’ve grown in critical thinking, my worldview, and my own identity. I can take all of these qualities sociology has given me and share that within my career. I plan to become a professor soon in this field, and I can’t wait to teach other students and help them fall in love with the subject.
What accomplishment are you most proud of from your time in college?
College was not easy. I worked two part-time jobs, never had less than 6 classes a semester, and tried to be involved with clubs and/or organizations on campus. Nevertheless, I maintained a 3.9 GPA my entire time here. I’m truly proud of myself for fighting through every moment where I thought I could drop out and never falling below the standards I carry for myself.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your college years, and how did you overcome it?
This final semester in college was my most challenging time yet. I’m taking 6 upper-level classes, and they all come with their own rigorous timeline. I’m still working 2 jobs in addition to school, so that only makes my time scarcer. I could, and still can, see the finish line up ahead, but it was not without its stresses. I kept pushing through and asked for help when necessary. I believe the biggest part about overcoming stress in college is knowing when you need a break; when you need to ask for help; and learning how to juggle all these different parts of your life.
If you could give advice to incoming students, what would it be?
Take your time. Remember, college may feel grueling, and you may want to get it done quickly. Take your time and think about what you want to do with your degree. I changed my degree one semester into college, and it was the best decision I ever made. Talk to your professors, get to know the faculty, and use the opportunities around you to your advantage. Take electives that are so left field from your major and try new things! It’s the time to do it.
What are your post-graduation plans?
I’ll be attending graduate school next fall. I plan to get my master's degree and PhD, so it’s not over yet!
What’s your go-to comfort food for stressful study sessions?
Sour candy–it reduces anxiety and helps you remember things with the sour association to studying!
What surprised you the most about college life?
The opportunity I would receive. I’ve been able to network and speak to almost every professor in my department, and they truly helped me succeed. They all care and wish the best for their students. I was able to walk into their office and just talk. It’s an incredible environment in the department.
How do you want to use your degree to make a difference in your community or field?
I’ve always wanted to help people. I came into college with a political science major to help marginalized groups have a voice. Now, I’ll be going into academia with the same motive. Education is a powerful tool–in my opinion, the most powerful. I want to inspire change in my students. I want to make sure they leave my class with knowledge they can genuinely use. I want to provoke people to share their message and speak up for themselves. Sociology is so broad, and that’s what I love about it. You can explore every wonder of the world.
If you had to sum up your college experience in three words, what would they be?
Eye-opening, exciting, and challenging (positively)
What’s one piece of advice that you received during college that you’ll carry with you?
Talk to your professors! Network! Ask for what you want without fear of rejection!
— Amanda Cerreto
