Congratulations to our very own Jacqueline DiPersio!

I recently started a new job as an Outreach and Communications Director for State Representative Linda Campbell of Methuen. My main duties are handling constituent issues within the district, representing my boss at various meetings pertaining to legislature in the State House, attending district events and meetings, and maintaining her social media presence. I also conduct research on legislation and advise the representative on policy creation and policy decisions. By far, the best part of my job is helping out constituents. Before taking this job, I never realized that people call their local representatives with serious issue and that we, the representative and her staff, can play a major role to help. My first case, I was able to help a women increase her food stamp benefits after they were cut significantly.  She was very low on funds and could hardly afford to eat everyday. After many phone calls and emails , we were able to provide proper documentation and reinstate her benefits. There are no words to describe the feeling of being able to help someone out in this way. I was able to make a huge impact in one person's life. Although I just started, I am grateful and excited for this opportunity to help people.

I have found that the world view I developed through studying sociology has helped me excel in this job so far. The perspective I bring to the table is a good balance with the strong political perspectives of my co-workers. The deep compassion and empathy sociologists develop towards others has also proven to be beneficial for this line of work. One thing sociology has taught me is that policy is important in shaping peoples lives.   I am humbled that I can help contribute to the political process to actually help people.