Beyond the Classroom: Samantha Johnson on Sociology, Public Service and Finding Purpose

In this episode of Stan State Beyond the Classroom, host Lanai Torres sits down with alumna Samantha Johnson, a 2021 sociology graduate and field representative for California Assembly District 13, to discuss public service careers, campus involvement and the relationships shaping her path.

Johnson works directly with constituents in Tracy, Stockton, French Camp and Mountain House. She connects residents with resources, supports community outreach and helps people navigate state agencies. She also oversees an internship program for students and young professionals interested in government and public service.

The conversation covers:

• How sociology prepared Johnson for public service
• Why campus involvement and studying abroad shaped her growth
• How a LinkedIn message led to her first campaign role
• What field representatives do for constituents
• What Johnson looks for in public service internship applicants

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Finding a Path Through Sociology

For Johnson, public service began long before her first government role. Growing up in Stockton, she learned the value of family, community and a strong support system. Those experiences shaped her interest in work centered on people and service.

Johnson explored several majors after arriving at Stan State before finding her fit in sociology. The program's focus on people, institutions and communities matched the questions she wanted to study.

Coursework and classroom conversations helped Johnson understand experiences beyond her own. The degree also strengthened skills she now applies while speaking with residents, identifying needs and connecting constituents with state resources.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Johnson built much of her college experience through campus involvement. She lived in the residence halls, joined the Sociology Club, worked at the Warrior Cross Cultural Center and served as a resident assistant.

She also studied abroad in Spain. The experience placed her in unfamiliar settings, challenged her comfort zone and helped her grow in confidence. Together, those opportunities gave her space to build relationships, practice leadership and learn from people with different backgrounds.

As a first-generation college student, Johnson understands the pressure of making academic and career decisions without a clear roadmap. Her advice centers on action. Join an organization. Attend events. Speak with faculty and staff. Ask for guidance. Build relationships before an opportunity appears.

How a LinkedIn Message Opened a Door

One of Johnson's first career opportunities started with a cold message on LinkedIn. After a graduate school advisor told her about a local campaign, Johnson contacted the campaign and offered to volunteer. The conversation led to a paid position and later opened the door to more campaign and public service work.

The experience reinforced a lesson she now shares with students. Networking works best when students connect their interests with a clear reason for reaching out. A student club, campus event, internship, volunteer shift or professional coffee chat each provides a place to learn about possible paths and meet people already doing the work.

"Find what you're passionate about, then find the people who are already in that space."

Serving Constituents and Building Trust

In her current role, Johnson helps residents address problems involving state agencies. Some constituents contact the district office after waiting for assistance or struggling to identify the right office. Johnson listens, gathers information and connects each person with the appropriate support.

For Johnson, public service includes rebuilding trust and helping residents understand how to advocate for themselves. The work brings government closer to the people affected by state programs and decisions.

What Public Service Internship Applicants Should Show

Johnson also oversees an internship program for students and young professionals. Experience matters, but purpose carries greater weight in her review. Strong applicants explain why public service matters to them and how the opportunity connects with their goals.

"Show us your best self and tell us your why."

Students interested in government, advocacy or nonprofit work should begin by joining community projects, volunteering for campaigns, attending public meetings and applying for internships. Johnson encourages students to identify the issues they care about, then seek relationships with people working on those issues.

A Career Built Through Community

Johnson's route from sociology student to field representative was not linear. She changed majors, explored different roles, stepped into unfamiliar spaces and accepted opportunities aligned with her values.

Her connection with Stan State also continues beyond graduation. Johnson supports campus initiatives as an alumna, including work to build the Black Alumni Network.

From residence hall leadership to the State Assembly, Johnson's path reflects the role community, relationships and purpose play in career development. Her message to students is direct. Stay curious. Know your values. Build relationships. Take action before the path feels complete. The work of serving a community does not begin after graduation. For Johnson, the first steps began at Stan State, beyond the classroom.