STC Student Becomes a National Voice for Change
South Texas College (STC) student John Haugland is making waves at a national level for his work in applied sociology, focusing on helping children reconnect with their incarcerated parents. His journey from personal adversity to national recognition offers hope and inspiration for the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) community.
Advocating for Change
Haugland, a 24-year-old sociology student set to graduate soon from STC, has been appointed as the Undergraduate Student Representative on the board of the Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology (AACS), a testament to his impactful work. His focus on solutions, rather than just identifying problems, has earned him a spot on a national champion team — the first from a two-year institution — to win the AACS Student Problem-Solving Competition. Their proposal aims at developing strategies to help children reconnect with their incarcerated parents, a model recognized as a potential national reform.
“The true purpose of applied and clinical sociology is to create solutions,” Haugland explained. “It’s not just about studying problems; it’s about understanding why they exist and how we can fix them. This work gives us tools to look at systems, environments, and relationships, allowing us to intervene in ways that genuinely help people.”
Impact on the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) Community
For Valley residents, Haugland’s journey signifies the growing prominence of local voices on a national stage. His success reflects the potential of regional institutions like STC to foster talent that addresses pressing issues, thereby positively influencing the local community. As Haugland builds bridges within families and addresses generational trauma through his sociology work, he stands as a testament to the resilience and capability inherent in the RGV.
Carlos Ramirez, an educator from McAllen, expressed optimism about Haugland’s achievements: “Having someone from our community who shines a light on such an important topic means a lot. It shows that even in places considered remote or overlooked, incredible work is being done, and it can really push the RGV into the national dialogue.”
Personal Challenges and Resilience
The path that led Haugland to this point was not without challenges. Originally from Houston, he faced personal struggles, including the loss of his mother at 21, which led to a battle with alcoholism. After her passing, he relocated to the Rio Grande Valley to be closer to family, coping with grave shifts at a local convenience store and overwhelming feelings of hopelessness.
“I always knew I wanted to go to college. It was something I kept telling myself had to happen. While working those long shifts alone, I’d think, ‘There has to be something better,’” he shared.
The turning point came in 2023 when he enrolled in STC’s Sociology program. Inspired by guidance from therapy at Tropical Texas Behavioral Health, where STC’s program was recommended, Haugland found a new direction. “This place changed my life,” he noted.
The Future of Social Intervention
With a renewed outlook, Haugland’s aspirations include further education in philosophy and potentially becoming a published author. There’s also an aspiration to return to STC as a professor, contributing to the academic environment that played such a critical role in his transformation.
“I want to go to graduate school and focus on writing, whether it’s fiction, social commentary, or research. There are so many directions I could take,” he said. “I just hope I’ve left behind a strong foundation with the Ethics Bowl team and inspire others to create real social change. STC was just the beginning.”
Local Opportunities for Engagement
The significance of Haugland’s efforts extends beyond personal achievements; it suggests a model for others interested in sociology and social work. STC’s Sociology program is recognized for partnering with organizations like AACS, providing students real-world applications and community-focused projects. Aspiring students in the Rio Grande Valley interested in the sociology program’s opportunities can learn more by visiting STC’s official website or contacting the academic department directly.
Continued Legacy of Community Engagement
Haugland’s journey underscores the power of education and community support in transforming lives. His work as a national voice for change in the sociology field positions the RGV as a hub for impactful social initiatives. As John Haugland continues his path towards more extensive national contributions, the Rio Grande Valley community stands ready to support and celebrate his achievements, demonstrating how local impact can reverberate nationwide.
For further information on STC’s Sociology program, interested parties can visit [STC’s sociology page](https://www.southtexascollege.edu/academics/sociology/) or call 956-872-3452 to learn more about this life-changing program open to Valley residents.
Information source: STC
