I graduated as a history major is Spring 2022. I just finished my MA in history (2024) at UC and will be continuing on at the doctoral level.
What brought you to history at UC?
I am a second-generation UC history student, as my father also was a Bearcat. His experience convinced me to come to UC.
What did you focus on as a history student at UC?
I took a variety of history courses at UC, but I gravitated towards courses about labor and the economy.
Did you have any favorite history courses? Which ones and why?
My favorite history course was the research capstone. I enjoyed digging deep into a niche subject. I studied Father Thomas McGrady, a socialist priest who was removed from the Archdiocese of Covington and the relationship between socialism and Catholicism. I was interested in this project because it was a local history, and I found the idea of a socialist priest intriguing. The two ideologies seem opposed in today’s political landscape, but through my project I learned they have many similarities.
What skills did you pick up from studying history that have served you well beyond your courses?
The ability to read and understand a large amount of material quickly is a very valuable skill I developed as a history major.
Have any advice for current students?
My advice to current students would be to read all of your readings. It may seem like a lot, but actively reading instead of skimming helps you get much more out of the course.
