I’ve been scrambling to learn more qualitative approaches to research. This is not only important for my mixed methods Sociology thesis, it is also a foothold into more qualitative work in the future. My instincts tell me that if I become employed as a researcher with only quantitative qualifications, no further opportunities will emerge without going back to school. Qualitative methodologies further offers the best opportunity to put Sociology and Women’s and Gender Studies in conversation. My independent research gets overwhelming because there is so much to sift through, but I am hoping my new class in Family Studies will help strengthen my foundation.