When I applied to Hopkins, I did so as a projected International Studies major. During my freshman year, I had the opportunity to explore the History, Political Science and English departments, among others, while attempting to fulfill my major requirements and taking First-Year Seminar (FYS) and Reintroduction to Writing courses. In doing so, my passion for history was reignited. At the end of my sophomore year, having already fulfilled both of the historical methods requirements, I declared a second major in History.
If you’re unsure of whether to declare a major in History, the best thing to do, as with most things, is give it a try. When selecting an FYS or Reintroduction to Writing class, see what courses the History department is offering and consider taking one that piques your interest. These opportunities can help you determine whether the foundational elements of academic historical studies, such as archival research or historiography, are stimulating for you.
It can also help to identify a more specific interest area and whether a History major will help you explore it. The Hopkins History department is a rigorous and well-respected program, especially given the research opportunities available. Incoming students who know they are interested in, for example, early modern European history, the ancient Near East or the pre-colonial Americas should search the History department database for faculty and courses who might have relevant ongoing projects or coursework. Opportunities to connect with the professors in the History department outside of formal studies are plentiful — in my experience, every member of the faculty has been welcoming and encouraged me to meet with them or a colleague one-on-one about my curiosities and questions. Once in the department, undergraduate students have the opportunity to attend lunches with department heads and weekly research presentations, among many other events.
When I was debating whether to declare a History major, I became engaged in historical research through the International Studies department and identified that intersection as a place where unique opportunities were available that related to my interests. If you’re already set on another major, check whether its requirements overlap with the History major requirements — the likelihood is that you’re able to apply courses to multiple majors, cover a wider range of Foundational Ability credits and establish a unique focus area for research.
The History major should not be considered solely by pre-law students or hopeful academics. Its practical purposes exist in the ability to analyze contradictory sources, recognize areas where academic study is currently incomplete and identify the successes and failures of existing interpretations of our common history.
Julia Schager is a junior majoring in International Studies and History from Stamford, Conn. She is a Copy Editor for The News-Letter.
