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!” 
  • 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.
  • 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." 
  • Shanleigh Corrallo, PhD Class of 2020
    12/8/21
    I currently study African American and urban history following World War II. My focus is on Black Power organizations in Rustbelt areas; I study how these organizations responded to federal initiatives such as urban renewal that often led to the destruction of minority homes and communities. Following graduation, I envision myself working for a think-tank or a non-profit organization in a policy capacity.
  • 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!
  • 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.
  • 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.” 
  • Mariah Agbonkpolo, BA Class of 2021
    12/8/21
    "I wanted to become a History major because we need to understand the past if we want to create lasting social change. Since I wanted to pursue a degree in law, I felt it was necessary to understand how historical processes create institutional barriers that perpetuate social inequalities. Being a history major provided me with the space to study the impact of social identities such as race and gender on the past and present. "
  • Corrine Cardinale, BA Class of 2018
    12/8/21
    I’ve always loved reading, writing, and telling stories. When I was in high school, I realized that there were some stories that carried more significance than others to me, and those were historical stories. I remember hearing the quote, “Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat 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.