Alumni Experiences

Our alumnicome 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. 

  • Mariah Agbonkpolo
    11/11/24
    "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. "
  • Caitlin Blue
    11/11/24
    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
    11/11/24
    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.
  • Corrine Cardinale
    11/11/24
    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.”
  • Shanleigh Corrallo
    11/11/24
    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.
  • Crystal L. Couch
    11/11/24
    “I can say, with confidence, that my time at UB in the undergraduate history program was exciting, engaging, welcoming, and unique. I had the opportunity to learn and interact with some of the most knowledgeable and engaging professors, who strived to make each class exciting. I learned skills and knowledge that were versatile and adaptable to my current life as a graduate education student. I am grateful for my decision to pursue my B. A in history and am thankful for the experiences I gained during my time in the program.” 
  • Elisabeth Davis
    11/11/24
    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?
  • Richard Fries
    11/11/24
    My favorite class within the history major so far would have to be His 391,China and the World, taught by Dr. Stapleton. As someone who went into the course with very little knowledge about Chinese history, this class provided all of the necessary background information that you would need in order to get really in depth on a lot of interesting topics I never covered in high school.
  • Mia Hanson
    11/11/24
    "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." 
  • Alec Herbert
    11/11/24
    “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.”