Corrine Cardinale, BA Class of 2018

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.” This quote has stayed with me and has always served as a reminder to me of why History, and more generally speaking, the Humanities, are so important. The History department at UB is fantastic not only because of the professors, but because of opportunities, like Phi Alpha Theta and scholarships. I truly feel that the professors I’ve worked with are invested in my education and want me to do well. The History major is more of a community than a department at UB. I am very proud to be a member of the UB History Department. 

The best experience I have had is being a member of the Honors Thesis class. This class has allowed me to become closer with professors, faculty, and other students. Everyone in the class can contribute to each topic, even if it is not their focus. For example, I might say something about 19th century rag picking and someone will chime in with a book I should read that they remember from a class they took two years ago. The class has really served as a sort of think tank for my research and has taught me about other areas of study I haven’t had a chance to explore. The Honors Thesis class is a really unique experience to work with people I have been taking classes with since I was a freshman and see where our interests in History have taken us. The department is smaller than others on campus, which is nice because I feel like my History advisor and professors actually get a chance to know my interests and me. 

After graduation, I would like to pursue a M.A. in Communication. I think being a double major in History and Communication has given me an advantage in my Communication classes because I am able to read, write, and analyze at a more advanced level. If nothing else, I think that being a History major has prepared me to be a well-educated, contributing member of society. The History major has taught me so much about myself, and the world around me; there is nothing more that I want to do than start important conversations and share stories.