BA in History

Brianna Sullivan, 2027

How did you decide on the history major? 
 
My family has a Bible that has been passed down through generations over hundreds of years. It details centuries worth of my ancestry with pictures, stories, and handwritten records. It was passed down to me to continue the documentation within it for the generations alive during my lifetime. I have noticeably unique and distinct handwriting, and it perfectly matches that of many of my ancestors within it. Ever since small childhood, I have always had a very close connection with those who came before me, the preservation and memory of their stories, and the knowledge that we all will one day be looked at through a historical lens like we look at the past, so majoring in History felt very natural for me. Additionally, I had a phenomenal history professor who brought history to life, which was my final push to major in history. 
 
Are you minoring or double majoring in anything else? If so, how do the two work together – or separately? 
 
I am double majoring in history and theater with a concentration in performance. Both largely focus on the study of people and of presenting information to inspire empathy and reflection in an audience. They work very well together for me. I am also the dramaturg for a historical musical where I do research on the history of the play and its historical context, and both backgrounds have aided me immensely in my research. 
 
What have you learned in a history class that really surprised you/changed your perspective? 
 
How similar people have always been, and that there are parts of "history" that have been written down that have been false narratives crafted by people who could gain from twisting narratives from the time in which and before they lived. Therefore, I learned the importance of thorough research into topics from multiple perspectives and analyzing the wide-reaching impacts that false narratives have had. 
 
Tell us about your dream occupation… 
 
My dream occupation is to be a museum curator. The idea of bringing history to life and passing on the memory of people's lives makes me look forward to my future opportunities immensely. It would be incredibly fulfilling. 
 
Have you had any internships? Or interesting jobs or volunteer experience? Tell us about it/them. 
 
I'm the financial vice president for my sorority which has taught me a lot about finance and organization. For many years I've raised money for cystic fibrosis research and St. Jude's. I have organized many clothing, pet supplies, and food drives. I have also been a dance teacher and hockey coach. 
 
Any accomplishments you’re proud of? Opportunities you’ve taken advantage of? Brag a little! 
 
I've played NCAA ice hockey and rugby, I have a college certificate in fashion design, I've been on the Dean's List every semester, I'm in two honors societies, and I am a History Program Student Ambassador. 
 
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you. 
 
I did dance, cheer, acting, art, and orchestra for many years, I'm writing a play for The Originals, I've designed fashion collections, I'm distantly related to Gibby from iCarly and multiple royal families, and I'm a twin!