Meet Sasha Pierre-Louis, a user-experience researcher for the State Department. She earned her master’s degree in sociology in 2020. Learn more below.
What was your career/life journey after graduating from VCU?
I graduated with a master's in sociology in 2020 during the height of pandemic. I did not walk but I did take graduation pictures. It took me about a year to find a job but I took time to travel, spend it with friends and family, apply for jobs and volunteer.
What are you up to now?
I bought a home in northern Virginia about four years ago, and now work as a user experience researcher at the State Department in federal contracting. I improve the applications people use to submit travel documents. I love that I can make a difference through research, especially with a sociological lens. I also love it up here! In my free time I volunteer at National Museum of African American History and Culture and recently became a docent sharing the rich history of African Americans to people all around the world. I also spend a lot of my free time supporting the DC Arts and local Black arts. I recently accepted a board member position at the Arena Stage Theatre, serving as an ambassador for the plays and community events that the Arena Stage hosts.
What is your favorite memory from your time at VCU?
I worked as a graduate teaching assistant in the writing center and helped many students improve their papers, personal statements and other professional papers. There was a professional student that I helped revise their dissertation and we remain connected years later! Their paper taught me so much about women's health.
What was the impact of winning the Black History in the Making award?
I am grateful to be recognized for the work I am doing. At the time I was genuinely surprised, and since winning this award, I try to honor what it means to embody service and strive to put my best foot forward in everything I do. I serve by giving my time to organizations that prioritize the humanities, and the history and artwork of underrepresented populations. These are some of the causes that I care about because they preserve the truth, and can connect people through shared experiences. And today, we can all use a bit more care and understanding.
What is one piece of advice you have for current students?
No idea is too big; But you will definitely have to stay focused, be willing to put the time in and be your own advocate. Stay committed to your dreams and surround yourself with those who are encouraging and supportive. These are the people you should share your ideas with because they'll help make it happen.
“I serve by giving my time to organizations that prioritize the humanities, and the history and artwork of underrepresented populations.”
- Sasha Pierre-Louis