Graduate Profile: Tammi Neuscheler
Tammi Johnson Neuscheler has used her women’s studies minor in a variety of positions — working in marketing and sales, economic aid and now as a stay-at-home mother.
“What I find so important about women’s studies is that it is about more than providing a career field,” the 1996 graduate says. “It also helps us to be more responsible and informed people.”
The communication major was drawn to the program after taking a feminist philosophy and religion class. The course encouraged her to ask questions and challenge assumptions.
“I think women’ studies is unique. It does not just give you knowledge or job skills. It changes how you view the world and therefore changes how you live and work in the world.”
“Women’s Studies is not just about sexism; it is also about being able to see where power exists and how it can be abused, whether it be regarding sex, race, ethnicity, class or ability,” she says.
Neuscheler earned her master’s degree in women’s studies at San Diego State University and worked as a staff person for the San Diego County Commission on the Status of Women. She also worked for the state of West Virginia as an economic service worker.
“While many of my colleagues tended to stereotype people in need of public benefits, women’s studies taught me to break down stereotypes — to understand that there are societal forces in play that influence individual's lives,” she says.
“It taught me compassion, concern and a desire to help people change their lives. In that way, I think women’ studies is unique. It does not just give you knowledge or job skills. It changes how you view the world and therefore changes how you live and work in the world,” she says.
She hopes to do similar work in the future, but right now is focused on using her education to raise her 2-year-old son and 3-month-old daughter.
“I hope that the skills and knowledge women’s studies brought into my life will make me a better mother and help me raise responsible children,” she says.
“While the feminist movement has fought for increased opportunities for women in the workplace, it has also given women the freedom to make choices regarding their professional and personal lives.”
Attracted to Alma by the personal education and small class sizes, she was an Alma Ambassador and a writer for the Almanian. She also was involved in Panhellenic Council, Communication Honor Society, Women’s Issues Advisory Board Planning Committee, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Alpha Xi Delta sorority.
