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. 

  • Caitlin Blue, BA Class of 2018
    12/8/21
    Prior to coming to UB as a transfer student in 2015, I attended St. Bonaventure University where I was an International Studies major. I had always had an affinity with anything related to history but I wasn’t so sure about majoring in it.
  • Katherine Bonk, BA Class of 2018
    12/8/21
    I wanted to go to college to be a teacher, but UB did not have that as an option for undergrads, and because I knew I wanted to teach history, I became a history major.
  • 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." 
  • 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.” 
  • 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.” 
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.” 
  • 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.