Tomas Sanjuan

Why FSU?

I chose FSU to pursue my Ph.D. because the Department of Sociology is the top sociology program in Florida, and one of the highest-ranked sociology programs in the southeastern region of the U.S. Political sociology, the research area I intend to focus on, is also one of the department's strongest areas of research. Additionally, because it’s centrally placed in our state’s capital, FSU offers a front-row seat to witness democracy in action. Whether it's the more formal processes, such as the voting that takes place by elected officials to pass new legislation, or everyday people collectively mobilizing through protests outside the Florida State Capitol Building, this unique location and ability to witness these things really sets FSU apart.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

What truly motivates me to pursue a Ph.D. is the intellectual freedom it offers. The excitement of exploring questions that are not straightforward, questions that stimulate the brain and challenge the existing logic we utilize to understand and make sense of our social reality, is unparalleled. My exposure to social theory and research methods from my mentors as an undergraduate and master’s student has provided me with a foundation to study the social world empirically, which I hope to build upon as a Ph.D. student. I am driven by the prospect of becoming a producer of knowledge, contributing to scholarly debates, and creating new threads of research to expand those debates.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

The research I intend to pursue is important because of the current moment we are living in, witnessing increasing political polarization and growing distrust towards democracy. We are often informed on political issues through the media we consume—whether it be a news program on television, radio, podcasts, newspaper articles, op-eds, or websites such as social media platforms. I am particularly interested in studying how the reactions of social actors within political movements to media discourses on polarizing issues strengthen or erode their alliances and coalitions with other movement actors—or enable the formation of new relations.

Career aspirations

I want to pursue an academic career within the field of sociology. After finishing my doctoral degree, I would like to secure a tenure-track position with the hope of one day becoming a professor at a research university.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Make sure that you study something you are not only passionate about, but also find intellectually stimulating. Since grad school requires you to dedicate lots of time and can be hard work, it is important to avoid burn out. Make sure to take breaks when needed, surround yourself with a strong support system, seek mental health care when needed, celebrate your accomplishments, and remember to give yourself grace along the way.

Accomplishments during graduate career

I am just starting out on my doctoral graduate career, but I am proud to have been awarded the McKnight Doctoral Fellowship.