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. 

  • Jessica Petteys, History / Law Combined BA Student , Class of 2022
    7/21/22
    “My favorite part about being a History major at UB was how interesting and diverse the classes are. They have an amazing selection of subjects. As a History major at UB, you’ll find yourself taking everything from the History of Brazil to the History of Korea (sometimes in the same semester)! The professors are extraordinarily and always there to help!” 
  • Danielle Redfield, BA Class of 2022
    7/20/22
    “I was drawn to UB's History department because of the diversity in both the professors and the courses offered. This was extremely important to me in planning my education because I wanted to be taught by scholars who each brought their own varied perspectives into their field of study. Being a History major at UB has given me some of my best memories. The department is filled with some of the smartest people I think I'll ever meet who truly have a passion for the field they're in but more importantly the students they teach. The people in the program constantly push each other to widen perspectives and challenge how we understand history. UB History has shaped how I look at history and how I look at what is happening around me in the world today.” 
  • Vicky Jocelin, BA Class of 2009
    12/8/21
    I graduated from the University at Buffalo in May of 2009 with a BA in History and Teacher Education Minor. My degree created an opening at a non-profit agency where I assisted over-aged and under credited at-risk students earn their high school diploma.
  • Mia Hanson, BA Class of 2021
    12/8/21
    "I really enjoyed my four years of studying history at UB. I loved that classes were unique and interesting: I was able to study subjects like Stalinism, LGBTQ history, and the history of fashion. I strengthened my skills in analysis and writing with the support of many of my professors. I also got to apply my knowledge in creative ways, not just writing research papers, but also creating podcasts and presentations. Studying at UB has helped me feel prepared for graduate school, where I am currently studying Russian culture and history. Take a chance on a history class at UB, I guarantee you will enjoy it." 
  • 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.
  • Mohamad Naji, BA Class of 2021
    12/8/21
    “One thing I loved during my time in the history department, is the amazing professors I had. There is a wide range of topics that students can learn about and all the professors made the classes fantastic. I only ever had fantastic professors and they really made my experience only more enjoyable. You really cannot go wrong with any of the professors and I look at a lot of them as role models for me beyond my time at UB.” 
  • Logan Woodward, BA Class of 2017
    12/8/21
    After graduating I continued my work as the Coordinator of Jewish Student Life for Hillel of Buffalo in a full time role. Through Hillel International, I was accepted to the Ezra Fellowship.
  • Alec Herbert, History Minor Class of 2021
    12/8/21
    “My minor in history at UB helped me develop my reading and writing skills but more importantly showed me the importance of history as a discipline. No matter what your area of study, I think getting involved with the History Department can help you be more understanding and compassionate about the situations and problems we face today.” 
  • Victoria Iachetta, BA Class of 2014
    12/8/21
    Choosing to become a history major was never something I thought twice about. After my first semester of college, I knew that I wouldn’t enjoy my time at UB if I wasn’t reading, writing, and learning about the things I’m passionate about.
  • Jenna Marcus, BA Class of 2021
    12/8/21
    “The history classes I’ve taken at UB have stayed with me long after finishing them. Among other things, they opened my eyes to a world of diverse histories and human experiences, and helped me to understand the events that have shaped our current world. The knowledge gained and the stories learned have awarded me valuable and clear-eyed insight into the present — something all too important in a world where peoples, systems and events are so often deeply misunderstood.”