Sociology grad aims to make a difference with older generations

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of profiles for fall 2018 commencement. Read about more graduates.

Laura Rocha knew by the time she was in high school that she wanted to make a difference in the lives of the elderly. She has always loved the wisdom with which older generations speak and the stories they have to tell, making a career as a caregiver/rehabilitative specialist a perfect fit for her. 

Rocha is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in sociology from the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics at Arizona State University, and she will be pursuing this career immediately after graduation. 

Growing up in Chandler with four siblings (two of whom also attended ASU), Rocha is grateful for her supportive family and comfortable upbringing. The most surprising things she learned in her classes involved the incredibly important roles that people in service careers play for those suffering from violence, family separations and substance abuse. This has led her to become drawn to a career in which she can help others in need. 

Rocha is a risk-taker who loves to learn about new things and explore new environments. She studied abroad in China for a semester and learned a lot about the history and language of Chinese culture. This experience helped her tremendously in her personal growth and reinforced her desire to work with diverse populations. She also often participated in volunteering events through the Sanford Student Leaders Club, getting involved in helping others within the community. 

Her advice for other students is to “always make school a priority, do assignments on time and put in your best effort.” Most importantly, she would like other students to know that “stress is temporary.” Rocha often found solace and a quiet place to reflect in the Music Library on campus — a place she recommends to others.

Written by Stacie Foster