MA in History

Alexis Frambes, 2022

Why did you decide to pursue an M.A. in History? 

I graduated with my BA in History from GMU in December 2019. Shortly after, I had lined up a job with the Smithsonian National Museum of American History as a contractor. I worked as a collections management intern from 2018 to 2019, and the contract position was essentially a continuation of that internship. It was supposed to start in April 2020, but then the COVID-19 pandemic hit and eliminated the position. I knew I needed to come out of the pandemic as a more competitive candidate for roles in public history, and that required a Master's degree. 

What was your most rewarding class? Why? 

My most rewarding class was probably "Creating Usable Pasts" with Dr. Genetin-Pilawa. I knew I wanted to work in museums, and this class helped me solidify why. It underscored the responsibility museums and historians have to curate thoughtful, engaging, and responsive exhibits that confront difficult truths and help people grapple with the past. Museums are spaces for reflection and dialogue, and I want to help craft those spaces. 

How has the M.A. program helped you with your career or your personal interests? 

I work as an interpretive planner at an exhibit design firm that crafts exhibits for museums, historic sites, and parks across the country. The research, writing, and time management skills I developed during the M.A. program are invaluable to my job. I usually work on several projects at a time, that are all in various stages of development, and I am not a subject matter expert in any of them. I definitely didn't study dinosaurs or stormwater and wastewater management in school, but I've written about them! The M.A. program trained me to identify sources, absorb the material, and distill it into my own writing on a tight schedule. 

Any advice you would give to students in the program?

Make friends with your classmates. You cannot get through this program alone, nor should you try. Having a support system is critical, especially one that understands exactly what you are going through. They will be some of your biggest supporters after you graduate, and invaluable connections as you navigate your career. The people you meet and what they teach you are just as important as the books you read. 

Tell us something that people would be surprised to know about you.

I am really into birding and wildlife photography. You can usually find me at a local park on the weekend, hunting for my Bird of the Day or a new lifer to add to my list