The Future of Human Ecology
The field of human ecology—both here at K-State and around the world—constantly evolves to meet the changing needs of human beings. Take a look at what some leaders in the field believe the future holds for the various disciplines that make up human ecology.
I am frequently privileged to visit with alumni of this College. Every time I do so, I am reminded of the significance of the disciplines represented within this college. I am also humbled by the tremendous contributions to their respective professional fields that our graduates are making. I am excited that two of our programs — personal financial planning and communication sciences and disorders — are not only ranked among the top programs in the nation but also prepare graduates for careers that rank among the top professional fields for the coming decade. And, when human ecology graduates pursue careers in business, they deliver consumer-centered services; when they pursue careers in health and human services, they advance human health and wellbeing; and when they design spaces and things, they are ecologically responsible.
— Virginia Moxley, Ph.D., Interim Dean, College of Human Ecology
The future of human ecology will remain focused on the same area that it has been in the past—PEOPLE. Meeting the physical, social, psychological, emotional, and cultural needs of people in our communities, countries, and world will continue to be our goal. However, the technology and methods that are developed to meet those needs will continue to advance the field further in the 21st century. Not only will we address the needs of people close to home, but international work will expand. We will see growing numbers of our students and graduates entering professions beyond our borders, and professionals from around the world will seek the types of expertise and knowledge we can provide them here in the College of Human Ecology.
— Briana Nelson Goff, Ph.D., interim assistant dean and associate professor, School of Family Studies and Human Services
I once asked my students how they thought their gerontology classes would help them with their careers and I was surprised to hear their responses. They understand that demographically speaking, in the very near future, there will be a lot of opportunities for those who want to work with aging populations. What I didn't expect to hear was that they found that learning about gerontology taught them a lot about themselves. Examining their thoughts and feelings about aging gave them the chance to think about their futures and those of their parents. Perhaps that is one of the goals we should have for the field of human ecology in the future—an understanding that preparing students for service to others just might help them understand their own motivations and goals in life.
— Gayle Appel Doll, Ph.D., director, Center on Aging and associate professor
The future is bright for people who dream of owning their own restaurant or sports bar, managing the front desk in a luxury hotel, or working in the travel industry. Things have never looked better for those who see themselves owning their own nutrition counseling business, working with a medical team in a major medical center, or consulting with the chef on healthy cuisine in a world-class spa resort. These and many other exciting career options are open for graduates in the Department of Hospitality Management and Dietetics. Whether you choose to major in Hotel and Restaurant Management or seek a degree and professional credential in Dietetics, K-State students in these majors have exciting hands-on experiences along with great preparation in the classroom. Internships across the country or around the world are part of every student’s degree program. Come on and join us!
— Deborah Canter, Ph.D., professor and department head, Hospitality Management and Dietetics