Degree: BA (UCA); BA Sociology (ASU); MA (ASU)
When did you graduate: 2010
What were some of the most rewarding/influential classes in your major? History of Witchcraft; U.S. Women’s History
Where did you live? Conway Hall, Bear Village Apartments
What groups did you belong to? None
Did you participate in any experiences outside the classroom in your major field? Internship in the UCA Archives, Fall 2008
What other experiences did you have that enriched your time as a student at UCA? As part of a Museum Anthropology course, I had the opportunity to gain experience in identifying and cataloguing the university’s collection of pre-Columbian pottery that was on display for a time in the Baum Art Gallery.
What did you plan to do with your degree? Doctoral program, museum/archive work
How are you using your degree? I am currently enrolled in the Master’s in Public History program at Arkansas State University and applying to doctoral programs at Ole Miss, Middle Tennessee State, University of Georgia, and University of South Carolina
What disciplinary skills do you use most often in your current job? Research and writing, critical thinking
What are your plans? What will your degree allow you to do/accomplish as you move forward? My plans are to move on to obtain a Ph.D. with a focus in public history. My current degree will allow me to pursue an advanced degree where I will be exposed to further opportunities for professional development within my chosen field.
What is the most surprising/unexpected thing you learned about yourself during your time as a BA student (whichever you were) at UCA? I was most surprised to learn that I had a larger interest in American history, particularly Southern history, than I originally thought.
What advice would you give someone who wants to get a BA in history? Do the reading! Apply yourself, and get involved with Phi Alpha Theta. Start building relationships with your professors and take advantage of opportunities like study abroad and internships.