• Graduation Year: 2019
  • Majors & Minors: History major; Spanish minor

Bailey

Current Student

How did you decide on your major?

Since my junior year of high school, I knew that I wanted to be a History major in college. My AP European History teacher, Mr. Balerno, helped develop my interest in history, the seeds of which had been planted by my father throughout my childhood.

What is it about your chosen field (and the department) that appeals to you?

My current research concerning social unrest and activism in late-20th-century America is especially important to me because of the lessons that can be learned regarding how to confront social issues and racial tensions in today’s incredibly fraught society.

Do you have a favorite class/professor within your major?

Professor Anthony DiBattista has been my favorite professor since I took one of his classes during my first semester at Rutgers. So far I have taken Emergence of Medieval Europe, History Workshop, and Age of Reformation with Professor DiBattista. He is so full of energy and demonstrates a genuine passion for the material. More importantly, he treats every class with immense respect and shows that he wants the absolute best for every student.

What are your favorite academic experiences outside of your major?

I have taken several excellent English courses and serve as an Expository Writing instructor for the Office of Diversity and Academic Success in the Sciences (ODASIS). My summers teaching the ODASIS students has been the most rewarding, memorable experience I’ve had at Rutgers.

What are your other Rutgers activities?

I am a School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program (SASHP) Senior Ambassador, SASHP Peer Mentor, and SASHP Student Advisory Board member. I am a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Phi Alpha Theta. I have also participated in Intramural Sports (soccer) and History Club.

What are your plans following graduation?

I will pursue a Master’s degree in Education in order to become a Social Studies teacher. I do not think this will be the only stop on my career journey, but I definitely want to generate experience working with youth in an education setting before exploring other options.

Return to Prospective Students Page