About Dr. Lauren
My Story
I was born and raised in New York City, and I currently live in Austin, TX. For 10 years I was a professor of sociology at Penn State University, where I conducted qualitative research and taught courses on race, gender, sexuality, qualitative research, public policy, and criminal justice. I know what it takes to write a strong paper, conduct a meaningful research project, and craft a successful grad school application. As a professor, I earned tenure, published 10+ journal articles and reviews, co-authored a book, received $45k+ in research grant funding, and gave countless conference presentations and invited lectures.​ I started LJ Academics as a way to reach college and graduate students in need of personalized academic support.
Professor, Sociology
PhD, Sociology
MA, Sociology
BA, Sociology
150+ 5-Star Reviews on Wyzant Tutoring
My Approach
I have taught hundreds of students as a professor, and I know that many students have great ideas but struggle to get them down on paper clearly. My philosophy now is the same as it has always been: I do not just help you get an A+ on that assignment, I teach you the tools you need to earn an A+ on your own in the future, again and again. I’m an excellent copy editor and can spot a grammatical error from a mile away--and explain to you how to fix it. I am also aware that not everyone feels welcomed and empowered within the mainstream educational system. Therefore, I am passionate about mentoring individuals from underrepresented groups.
Selected Experience
• Associate Professor of Sociology, Pennsylvania State University, Schuylkill Campus, 2010 - 2019; earned tenure in 2016 • Course Instructor, Stony Brook University, 2007 - 2008 • Teaching Assistant, University of California, Irvine (2001 - 2003) and Stony Brook University (2003 - 2005). ​ • Taught more than 40 courses in sociology, public policy, and criminal justice, in-person and online. Selected course titles: Race and Ethnic Relations; Sociology of Gender; Race and Public Policy; Sociology of Sexualities; Social Problems; Women and Justice • Supervisor to Honors Students/Honors Research Projects, Penn State Schuylkill, 2010 - 2019 • Mentor to Undergraduate Students, 2010 - current • Mentorship Committee Board Member, American Sociological Association section 2013 - 2017 • Diversity Council Board Member, Penn State Schuylkill, 2010 - 2018 • Online Teaching Certificate, OL 2000: Effective Teaching Online, Pennsylvania State University World Campus Faculty Development, 2011 • Academic Support to Students K-12 and Higher Education, Online and In Person, 2020 - current
