Beyond the classroom: WGSS in action

Thinking about life after graduation can be daunting as students transition from college to the professional world, graduate school or other new opportunities. Ohio University works to ensure students are prepared for whatever comes next. One recent effort connected students with alumni for guidance, tips and their experiences after graduating.

The Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) program held an alumni panel event for students on October 17; approximately 35 students attended. The panelists included Gabriela Grijalva (BSW '21, MSW '24), Felice Munroe (MA '25) and Lacey Rogers (BA, BSVC '11, MED '14, MPA '16). Each alum also earned a WGSS certificate during their time at OHIO.

The panel was supported by the Allushuski Fund for Women’s Studies, which supports activities that support the school-to-work transition for students. The panelists shared what their day-to-day jobs look like, the work they’re doing and how it intersects with WGSS. They gave advice to students about how to find jobs, how to tailor their job search to a WGSS major or certificate and how to present their expertise to potential employers.

Gabriela Grijalva 

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Grijalva is a licensed social worker practicing in Southeast Ohio. They help people in marginalized populations, such as people living with HIV and the queer community, navigate programs and work to decrease barriers to necessary services and access to medication. 

“WGSS opened my mind to the possibilities of what I wanted to do and who I wanted to work with,” Grijalva said. “My classes motivated me to focus my energy with the queer population and work more competently with people with diverse gender experiences.”

Grijalva said their internship with the OHIO Pride Center (formerly the LGBTQ Center) as critical for them. They recommended networking however and wherever you can, including getting involved in student organizations.

Felice Munroe 

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“I knew that I wanted to be an advocate,” Munroe said. “I didn’t see a clear path for that until I came to know about the WGSS graduate certificate.” 

She said supporting women and members of the queer community isn’t always straightforward because “we are often pushed aside.”

Monroe is an advocate at the Survivor Advocacy Outreach Program, which involves a lot of community engagement.

“Sometimes you go into work and barely sit at your desk,” she said, "which I love.” Her advice is to “stay focused on what you want to do.”  

Lacey Rogers 

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As a community engagement and accessibility coordinator, for the City of Athens, Rodgers helps develop inclusive procedures and practices. She credited her involvement with Empowering Women of Ohio for preparing her for the field and giving her connections that led to further career opportunities. Rodgers also credits WGSS for the interpersonal and conflict-management skills she uses daily.

WGSS is dedicated to helping students grow by connecting them with alumni, unique opportunities and meaningful experiences at Ohio University and beyond. Be sure check out their news and events page for the latest updates.