When I first began college, I had dreams of becoming an elementary school teacher. Everything changed last year as I found a new passion for writing research papers. Some may think that I am crazy, but I love spending my days in the library working on 10-15 page papers. As always, I had the support of my family. They encouraged me to pursue what I loved and pushed me to achieve my goals. Some may say that majoring in History can be irrelevant in modern society unless you plan on being a teacher. To much surprise, there are several opportunities awaiting students who have a BA in History.
1. Academia
What better way to devote your research and love of the subject than to teach college students? When becoming a Professor or a Doctor (with your PhD), you can strongly focus on a topic in history and hopefully the students will be engaged in their learning.
2. Campaign Manager
If choosing to add on a political science major or minor, you are well prepared to work for a political campaign. This can range from your hometown board of elections or in D.C.
3. Journalist / Editor
With a strong focus in critical thinking and writing, History majors are prepared for publishing articles, journals, and books.
4. Lawyer
Many lawyers receive their foundation in historical studies. In order to understand the present, you must recollect the past.
5. Archivist
If you're like me, you love seeing original documents & artifacts in person. If going into archival work, you can pursue a career in a historical society or even in a museum.
As a History Major, you develop critical reading skills, amazing writing techniques, and vital reading abilities. Yes, we may sit in class learning about Ancient Greece or about the contributions of the Mayan civilization. To some, this can be extremely boring, but I find it fascinating to learn about how history has created the present. Everything that we have today, can be located in the foundation of ancient civilizations, time-periods, historical events, philosophy, and political thinking.
Wherever you choose to go with your degree in history, remember that the possibilities are endless. In the words of Walt Disney himself, "If you can dream it, you can do it".
