Q&A: Meet Professor Leah Rohlfsen
Meet Your Sociology Mentor
Associate Professor of Sociology Leah Rohlfsen brings an interdisciplinary approach to her teaching, inspiring students to connect sociological concepts to their own lives and the world around them. Her classes are full of engaging discussions, hands-on activities, and thought-provoking insights into how society functions.
What’s your favorite class to teach, and why?
I love teaching Introduction to Sociology. It covers a little bit of everything, from culture to inequality, and there’s always a way to tie the material to current events or pop culture. It’s exciting to introduce students to the field and see them connect what we’re learning to their own experiences and interests.
What’s a unique course you’ve taught?
My Death and Dying course is definitely unique. Many students assume it will be depressing, but it’s actually enjoyable and thought-provoking. We tackle heavy topics, of course, but the discussions are incredibly meaningful, and students often walk away with new perspectives on life and loss.
What surprises students most about you?
I got a D in college chemistry! I share this to remind students that setbacks don’t define their success. Sometimes failing can be an important part of the journey and that perseverance is what matters most.
What’s been your proudest moment as a professor?
My proudest moments come in small but powerful ways—when I get an email from a former student saying they’ve been accepted to their top choice for grad school, started a meaningful new job, or found a way to contribute to a cause they care about. Knowing I’ve played a small role in their journey, and they’ve thought to tell me about it, is incredibly rewarding.
What’s a favorite alumni success story?
I think of Alan Martino ’11, an international student from Brazil who took my research methods course early in my time at St. Lawrence. He’s now a highly regarded professor doing groundbreaking work in Disability Studies. Another inspiring story is Rachel Loyst ’21, who volunteered as one of my CARE fellows at a Comfort Care Home for the dying, graduated at the top of her class, and went on to medical school. Both Alan and Rachel are incredible people and I’m so proud of them!
