Dacontee Davis '17

An interview with Dacontee

What was your hometown when you came to TCNJ?

Hamilton, NJ

Where do you currently call your hometown?

Hoboken, NJ

When you were studying here, where did you picture yourself after graduation?

I am doing exactly what I thought I'd be doing!

What was your first job after graduating?

Graduate school- University of Pennsylvania

How do you use your Sociology degree in your current career and other activities?

Majoring in SOC was the tip of the iceberg for my understanding of how the world truly works. I have expanded on my SOC studies by continuing to read books and attend trainings related to SOC to help my clients navigate their personal sociopolitical identity/context. I also help them discover how their lives and choices are ultimately influenced/impacted by the macro/global sociopolitical context and what role they'd like to play in their personal lives and as a global citizen.

What is your favorite "major memory" from your time as a Sociology student?

Conducting qualitative research for a professor's sociological experiment/paper and discussing the research with other student assistants; I learned so much about how to capture a person's subjective view in the form of research data! I use this experience to provide better treatment for my clients.

What is some advice you would give to your undergraduate self?

Go to a cheaper graduate school; most of the valuable experiences are gained in the office/field. And the loans are NOT worth it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Turning 30 two months ago has given me time to reflect on my college days and the beginning of my professional career. I realized that I wouldn't change a single decision or experience (besides the loans lol). Every hard, embarrassing, happy, disappointing, and fulfilling thing that happened to me HAD to happen in order for me to blossom into the wise and wonderful woman I am today. If there's one more thing I would add to my college life, it would be to stop and slow down a little more. Yes there were all the exams, papers, activities, etc. that rightfully demanded my attention, but I would add more consistent slow walks around the loop just to notice the small changes in nature. I would add sitting still in the sun while listening to music that sparked joy or cured my nostalgic ache for the ease of my childhood. The most valuable thing that no one can take from me (besides my knowledge) is my internal peace. And that now comes from slowing down, noticing the beautiful earth around me, daily yoga/meditation, and doing what nurtures my curiosity, peace, and creativity.