Meet Our Students

Our students come from diverse backgrounds and pursue a variety of different careers, but they have one thing in common: a desire to understand the past. We're honored to help them on their journey. Learn more about why our students think the University at Buffalo Department of History is the perfect place to study. 

  • Milenie Mani, Current History BA Student
    12/8/21
    “I found history to be interesting because of how broad but yet specific the world of history can be. As a history major, I can study the past and present societies as well as people's behaviors. My academic study in history has allowed me to understand how the past historical events and societies can be connected to modern day episodes. Within my four years in the history department, I feel as though my focus on historical issues has allowed me to develop the abilities to think critically and analyze historical trends. I have strengthened my writing skills and am able to write in depth on complex issues. I chose to major in history because it offers the most versatility in terms of learning about science, art, religion, politics, and culture. I recommend majoring in history to anyone who displays a wide range of interests and is seeking to enhance your writing and research skills.” 
  • Shuko Tamao, PhD Class of 2020
    12/8/21
    What drew me to the UB Department of History was the fact that several professors were very well matched to my interest area. I saw how students and faculty members were collegial to each other.
  • Elisabeth Davis, PhD Class of 2020
    12/8/21
    I was drawn to UB by the professors. The professors in in the history department are not only at the top of their field but have a wide field of research. Where else can you find department where one professor studies death in America while another studies nobility in early modern France?
  • Eric Stroiber, BA Class of 2009
    12/8/21
    Majoring in history does not limit one to becoming a history teacher. Many industries, including banking, are recruiting liberal arts majors because of their ability to think critically, understand and manage complex social and political relationships, and develop new ideas on how companies should navigate current and future business environments.
  • Sam Trzaska, BA Class of 2018
    12/8/21
    To be honest, every single class and experience during my time as a history major has been excellent. From the office staff to the faculty, everyone in the department is there to help you achieve your academic and career goals. I have taken courses on everything from the history of WWII to the cultural history of the Huron-Wendat Nation and the evolution of my favorite sport, soccer. However, my experience with the History Honors Program stood out as the most memorable and rewarding.
  • Justin Masucci, PhD Candidate
    12/8/21
    The most appealing aspect of the graduate program at UB is the cooperative spirit among the graduate students. Generally-speaking, the members of doctoral cohorts aid each other rather than compete with each other.
  • Lauren Kacherski, BA Class of 2018
    12/8/21
    As a freshman, I originally applied to UB as a business major. During the summer after high school graduation, I began to have doubts regarding this choice and contacted an advisor to discuss my decision. I spoke with Janeen Wilder and she was immensely helpful.
  • Joshua Keil, MA Class of 2018
    12/8/21
    If you enjoy learning about history, working with renowned scholars within various fields on a personal basis, creating and conducting your own research limited only by your imagination, and generally enjoy the company of fellow nerds and actually having fun in an academic setting, then I would say “Welcome to the University at Buffalo!” because you’ve found the right place!
  • David Strittmatter, PhD Class of 2018
    12/8/21
    Since starting the PhD program here, I have been pleasantly surprised by the number of opportunities grad students can take advantage of. Research and conference funding is available from a number of sources, and the department has given me the opportunity to teach three of my own classes.
  • Tanya Blakeley-Clark, PhD Candidate
    12/8/21
    Initially, the prospect of working with Dr. Claire Schen drew me to UB. I became familiar with her work as a master’s student and was excited at the opportunity to study under her. What solidified my decision was the welcoming environment that I experienced during my campus visit and the interdisciplinary approach that the department takes with regards to courses and research work.