I am a Spring 2023 graduate of UC. I majored in Africana Studies, minored in History, and received a certificate in Pre-Modern History from the Classics Department. I am also a member of UC’s Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Alpha Theta chapters.
What are you up to these days?
I am a doctoral student in the Department of History at Howard University. I am also a fellow with Freedom on the Move, a database of fugitives from American slavery at Cornell University.
What brought you to history at UC?
I was originally a Secondary Education: Social Studies major pursuing a career as a high school history teacher. During my sophomore year, however, I decided to switch to Africana Studies and minor in History. My love for history grew after that, and I decided to pursue a Ph.D. right after undergrad. My goal is to become a professor of U.S. history with a specialization in African American history.
What did you focus on as a history student at UC?
I focused on African American intellectual history. My period of focus was the Nadir of American Race Relations (1880-1915). I spent a great deal of time studying the racial ideologies of Booker T. Washington and W. E. B. Du Bois. Additionally, I studied the history of other black political movements, like Black Nationalism and Pan-Africanism.
Did you have any favorite history courses? Which ones and why?
I have three! My first favorite was Historical Thoughts and Methods with Dr. Jeff Zalar. This class prepared me for graduate school, and Dr. Zalar’s teachings gave me a solid foundation in the fundamentals of history. My second favorite was my independent study with Dr. Holly McGee. I enjoyed the one-on-one approach with Dr. McGee. She introduced me to what academic history was all about and gave me my first taste of black intellectual history. My third favorite was Roman History with Dr. Marion Kruse. This class is where I developed my interest in classical history. Dr. Kruse broke down each period of Ancient Rome in a concise manner and made the history thoroughly enjoyable to learn about!
What skills did you pick up from studying history that have served you well beyond your courses?
I picked up a lot of analytical skills. Whether I am watching the news, reading an article, or walking through a museum, I always find myself meticulously analyzing information. I also find myself synthesizing information. Studying history helps you understand the world and make connections to the past. I am always making historical connections to present-day events.
Have any advice for current students?
Diversify the courses you take. Specialization is good, but I believe that you should learn whatever you can!
