History and Political Science Alumni Profiles 

Current profession & position you hold:
Social Studies Teacher - 8th Grade - Lower Merion School District

What factors contributed to you choosing your academic major/minor in this department?
I’ve always been a lover of History so I knew since I was 13 years old what my college major would be. Also, when Dr. Mace called me in my senior year of high school welcoming me to Cabrini, the deal was sealed...I knew what my major would be for sure.

Can you describe your academic major/minor in this department? What was it actually like?
Majoring in History was amazing. One thing I loved about the department was the diverse teaching styles and focus areas of the professors. Each class presented its challenges which I thought was great because students need to be challenged in their classes. In this department, students learn the actual history without being forced to remember specific dates, battles, etc. This department required a great deal of writing which allowed me to process what I was actually learning in class.

Did anything surprise you about your studies in this major/minor?
One thing that surprised me was how challenging the Historiography class was. I knew it would be a great amount of work, but it didn’t hit me until I was actually in the course.

What was your favorite course in this department, and why?
My favorite class was Survey US History I with Dr. Fitzgerald. I love US History, but it is oftentimes taught from a whitewashed perspective; Dr. Fitzgerald did not teach it that way. His class was my very first class in my college career and had he not taught the class in the way he did, I wouldn’t have lasted at Cabrini.

Best thing about being a student in this department, or your academic major/minor?
The department is truly like a family. I know I can walk on campus and sit in the offices of my professors and it would be as if we had seen each other yesterday. The professors care about their students. The professors follow through. The professors do what they can to secure your future.

How did your degree or minor in this department prepare you for your future goals, and career?
The department showed me that in my own classroom, students need to feel like they have a place and a voice. Each professor in this department allowed students to speak up in class and contribute their own opinions and ideas, and that is important in the classroom setting. The department also challenged me in a way that I was still able to learn, and that is how I teach in my classroom as well. Students need to be presented with challenges to be truly successful.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major or minor in this department?
One tip I have for students considering a major in the department would be to come to all of your classes prepared. If you do the readings, research on your own, and genuinely care about the subject, the classes will be more fun than anything. I’d also say that students should come to each class with an open mind. Don’t expect the same things from each professor.

Current Career:
The Carlyle Group - Analyst, Long Term Incentives, Human Capital Management

What factors contributed to you choosing your academic majors in this department?
As a child, I always had a love of history, government, and our country. From this, I became more curious about the world, other countries and cultures, and the role of the United States in that construct. I wanted to have a career that was larger than myself, doing something that made a difference. As a first-generation college student, I wanted to make the most of my college education, and having three majors allowed me to learn even more.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
Without a doubt, the faculty are what makes the History and Political Science Department. Not only are they passionate educators, but they are genuinely the most dedicated, kind, and caring individuals I've ever met. Every year, I still return for the Phi Alpha Theta history honor society induction ceremony to see fellow alumni and faculty because of the relationships formed during my time at Cabrini, and after.

How did your academic majors prepare you for your future goals and career?
While a senior at Cabrini I was selected for an internship at The White House. I felt extremely prepared for my semester-long internship in Washington, DC, which allowed me to grow my network and create lasting professional relationships. 

After graduation, I began working for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as an Operations Associate where I managed day-to-day Operations for the DNC, as well as managed their internship program. 

After two years at the DNC, I transitioned to The Carlyle Group's Equity Management team. Switching from campaign politics to finance was something I never envisioned happening, but sometimes your career evolves in unpredictable ways. I didn't have a finance background but I transitioned with ease because my degree in Political Science taught me how to think critically and analytically.

Current Career:
Admissions Counselor, Cabrini University

What was the History major like?
The coursework and classes were manageable but pushed you to dip deeper and question your position on numerous different historical events. Overall, it led me to a growth in my understanding of historical events and how those events unfolded, and how individuals’ reactions to those events are still impacting us today.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The faculty… they were there to help answer any questions and they made class extremely fun to participate in. Being in the History and Political Science department at Cabrini really allowed me to approach my beliefs from a new angle and develop more empathy for those who came from different backgrounds. The faculty did not shove their ideological beliefs towards the students but promoted discussion about “tough” topics at every level which led to more understanding between peers who had differing opinions.

How did your major in History prepare you for your future goals, and career?
History, in my opinion, is a story that is often prone to repeating itself and this allows me to learn from my mistakes rather quickly, and it certainly helps me with problem-solving in difficult situations.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major in History?
Ask questions; you may not have liked history in high school but if you want to understand the politics of this country and the “why,” then you need to dive into your history and political science courses.

Current Career:
- Assistant Social Media manager and photographer for Rowan University 

- Graduate student in Cabrini University’s post-baccalaureate program - Secondary Education Certification

What factors contributed to you choosing the minor in Black Studies?
The course Introduction to Black Studies opened my eyes to the many aspects of life I was already living as a Black person in America. However, I could not easily describe my experiences and so Black Studies gave me a language to be able to affirm what I already knew. It is also useful in everyday life and allows me to create solutions to problems affecting my community.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
It's an extremely small department so when you take these courses you are seeing the same people, the same professors, so you really get the chance to engage and understand the material and improve your knowledge.

How did your Black Studies minor prepare you for your future goals, and career?
Being a social media manager and photographer for my employer, it is important to know about true diversity. As a Black person I knew this but my minor in Black Studies gave me the language and molded my disposition to be able to translate my lived experiences to the people I work with and teach them what actual diversity, equity, and inclusion is.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a minor in Black Studies?
Walk in with an open mind.

Current Career: Full-time Building Substitute for Eisenhower Science and Technology Leadership Academy, Norristown, PA

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in History?
Since my freshman year, the department expressed clearly what they wanted from me and asked what I wanted from them, leaving me with no lingering questions or concerns. I was never embarrassed or fearful to express how I was feeling or contact anyone within the department with any concerns, questions, or comments I may have had.

What was the History major like?
I have learned so much more from this department. As a cisgender, white female, I have appreciated my peers and society more, and their complexities, after taking several courses within this department. I have learned the difference between empathy and sympathy, and what it means to be a proactive citizen and member of a democratic nation. Being a part of this department has taught me how to act as a genuine and compassionate human being and how to become comfortable with the uncomfortable, which has allowed me to become the best version of myself because I am confronting my privileges and exposing my complexities.

What was your favorite course, and why?
My favorite course was AST 336 - Engaged Ethnography with Dr. Nancy Watterson. It allowed me to become more social, and learn from others and respect their life stories and opinions. Furthermore, this course forced me to have conversations I typically would not engage in and this proved to me that I am confident enough to express my feelings, opinions, and knowledge in an appropriate format and engage with my peers respectfully even when our beliefs do not interconnect.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
Because this is a smaller department within the University, I was able to not only learn about curriculum-based information and skillsets, but I was able to learn more about diversity through meaningful conversations with my peers. This not only allowed me to create new relationships that will last a lifetime and widen my connections but broadened my perspective on becoming more socially and culturally aware.

How did your major in History prepare you for your future goals, and career?
The department prepared me for the “Praxis II 5081: Social Studies Content Knowledge” assessment (teacher certification).

Current Career: La Salle University (PA), Men’s Basketball Video Coordinator

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in History?
I went to Cabrini knowing I wanted to be a teacher. I took one History course in the fall semester of my freshman year and I knew I had to be in the History and Political Science Department.

What was the History major like?
The academic requirements are challenging, but in an eye-opening and fair way. The professors did a great job of taking deep dives into the course material. Undoubtedly, the History and Political Science Department adheres to Cabrini's social justice curriculum. The department commits to giving students the real history of events and issues, through multiple lenses as opposed to one single lens.

What were your favorite courses, and why?
My favorite courses were Dr. Mace’s Latin American History courses. Entering Cabrini, I felt like United States History would be my favorite course. However, Latin American History gave me the chance to hear stories I had never heard.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The best thing was that every teacher was fully engaged in every lesson. There was never a time when I thought the teacher didn’t care about a lesson. Our class time was well-spent on the material that we all wanted to cover.

How did your degree in History prepare you for your future goals, and career?
Although I am not working in a history-related career, my history degree has prepared me for life beyond college. My history professors taught me to consider the multiple and varied perspectives of others. Acknowledging and understanding a situation through the lens of others is essential if we, as a society, are going to be united. This philosophy, along with Cabrini's mission of “education of the heart,” helped me develop into an engaged citizen and a professional who is able to foster an inclusive environment while working with individuals of all religions, races, and ethnic backgrounds.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major in History?
Go into the department with an open mind. Your preconceived notions of history will be challenged and you will oftentimes find out you were not seeing the entire picture.

Current Career: Commercial Litigation Attorney, shareholder

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in Political Science?I arrived at Cabrini with an interest in broadcast journalism, or pursuing a law degree.

What was the Political Science major like?
Political Science provided me the opportunity to work within a department where the professors were invested in the success of their students. It also offered some of the best professors in Dr. James Hedtke and Dr. Jolyon Girard. While there was some multiple choice type of testing, the majority of assignments required critical thinking, analysis and writing.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The opportunity to be taught by some of the best faculty members. The courses and professors also integrated current events into the curriculum and co-curricular activities which allowed me to mature as an adult member of society.

How did your degree in Political Science prepare you for your future goals, and career?
Many of my classes required written projects. What I did not appreciate at the time was that despite having the opportunity to try many cases in my career, the majority of my advocacy comes from writing. Being evaluated on a researched paper prepared me to communicate ideas and positions through writing.

The program also opened the door to two internships that were very beneficial to my career. I was able to work as a legislative aide to a state senator that chaired the judiciary committee. That experience allowed me to intern at the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office (PA) for two years in two different positions. Although I do not practice criminal law, the opportunity to observe very talented lawyers, and to have significant demands placed on me as an intern, greatly shaped my professional development.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major in Political Science?
If a student is interested in pursuing a law degree, the major offers opportunities to develop your analytical skills and writing.

Major: Political Science

Second Major: Criminology

Current Career: Special Agent with the United States Secret Service

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in Political Science?I grew up around politics. My grandfather and my father both spent many years on our local borough council. I also knew that I wanted to be in the Secret Service since high school. Thus, dual majoring in Political Science and Criminology helped me obtain a career in the Secret Service.

What was the Political Science major like?
My major was well-rounded. I worked very closely with Dr. Hedtke and Dr. Mace, and was able to gain a vast and in-depth knowledge on political theory, the application of political practices, and the real world interaction of politics.

What were your favorite courses?
POL 206 - Comparative Government, POL 261 - Political Ideologies, POL 315 - Intro to International Relations

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The best thing about the department was the faculty and the openness of the department to offer help. I was always able to get an answer for any questions I had and faculty would go out of their way to make sure we actually understood the material and were not getting behind.

How did your degree in Political Science prepare you for your future goals, and career?
Getting a major in Political Science helped me greatly with gaining experience and knowledge that directly translated to my current career. It was a huge advantage when going through the hiring process as well.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major in Political Science?
Take full advantage of the knowledge of the department’s faculty. For example, I was able to take a lot of History classes that gave the history behind some of the Political Science topics you learn about.

Current Career: Senior Licensing Specialist, insurance industry

What factors contributed to you choosing a minor in History?
I took Latin American History to fulfill my history requirements. I thought it would help me understand ongoing political unrest in the areas I was exploring to work in the non-profit sector. The courses helped me understand the US perspective and our nation’s influence on the world at large.

What was the History minor like?
My history education taught me how to look critically at the world, and at myself. I learned to look at primary, first-hand accounts to see the truth behind the glamorous victory speeches. I had the ability to explore courses that were interesting to me, and beneficial to rounding out my academic majors.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
Each professor shared the best of themselves to give me a better understanding of the subject.

How did your minor in History prepare you for your future goals, and career?
It has made me a better storyteller in both my professional and personal lives.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a minor or major in History?
Enjoy the experience of learning, but always look to find a way to share the past in order to create a better future.

Second major: Criminology

Current Career: Victim Response Coordinator at A Woman’s Place (metro-Philadelphia, PA)

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in Black Studies?
Wanting to educate myself more about my African-American roots; have critical conversations with classmates; and use my knowledge from Black Studies to help/educate those within my career.

What was the Black Studies major like?
Overall, Black Studies made my critical thinking skills much keener and expanded my knowledge on African-American history, gender roles, family structure, and protests.

What was your favorite course, and why?
BLK 435 - Gender and Black Protest was my favorite course because the topics discussed focused heavily on the blueprint of African-American protests in history, and I learned more about the Black woman and this made me become more in tune with myself.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The best thing about being a student in this department was being able to learn more about my culture and being able to use my newly obtained knowledge and apply it in my daily life.

How did your degree in Black Studies prepare you for your future goals, and career?
Learning to have more empathy for others and understand the root causes of situations/the way things currently are.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a focus in Black Studies?
Be open-minded to different perspectives and don't be afraid to voice your opinions/thoughts in a respectful manner during class discussion. Do your own additional research after class on topics that interest you, and take a look at how topics in class could apply to yourself or those around you.

Current Career: Career coach for College Possible (a nonprofit AmeriCorps organization)

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in Black Studies and minor in Political Science?
I was a part of the Black Student Union on campus, and I decided to take Introduction to Black Studies. After that, I took Gender and Black Protest, African American Psychology, Gloria Richardson and Freedom, etc. This major covers the justice system and so I decided to take Political Science courses: Introduction to Political Science, Public Policy, etc.

What were the Black Studies major and Political Science minor like?
Once I took Intro to Black Studies, it changed my whole perspective on society and being Black in America because I did not think I needed to take a class that was about being Black/African American. As for my minor in Political Science, it connected with Black Studies because both discuss race, class, and gender.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
This department is like a family where they will guide you and direct you if you get lost. They also helped me find my voice and pushed me to be the best person I can be. Drs. Mace, Fitzgerald, and Hedtke gave me the best experiences while being an undergraduate student because they didn't hold back; they allowed us to debate with them, and with our peers.

How did your Black Studies major and Political Science minor prepare you for your future goals, and career?
After graduating in 2019, it took time to figure out what direction I wanted to take because I had learned so much. Advocacy is something I am passionate about, particularly in the education system, so when I became a college career coach for high school students, something clicked. Listening to them, and working with faculty, it came to me that I eventually want to work in the public policy/public administration field.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a focus in Black Studies, or Political Science?
Do It! The classes are worth it and they open your mind to so many things.

Careers (former): Attorney with the federal government, including serving as chief legal counsel to the Director of the Congressional Research Service at the Library of Congress

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in History and a minor in Political Science?
The primary factors were the teaching excellence in the department, as well as the wide variety of courses available. The professors I had sparked a real interest in learning and scholarship, were outstanding role models, took a personal interest in my education and career preparation, and did all they could to support and encourage me as a student.

What were the History major and Political Science minors like?
They allowed me to study a diverse group of subjects, and to enhance my understanding of US society and culture, as well as those of other countries. I found the degree requirements to be very flexible, and the courses offered enabled me to really focus on the topics and areas that interested me. I learned to think critically, speak with greater clarity, and strengthen my writing skills.  The professors were truly amazing in their enthusiasm for the subject matter and their desire to impart knowledge. The lectures and classroom discussions were always stimulating and enlightening.  My worldview was immeasurably expanded, and the knowledge I gained has stayed, in very concrete terms, with me to this day.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The possibilities I was made aware of at Cabrini encouraged me to pursue a career in international relations and the law. I was better prepared for graduate school, and eventually law school, as a result of the foundation I received in the History and Political Science Department.

How did your degree in History and minor in Political Science prepare you for your future goals, and career?
They greatly strengthened my analytical and rhetorical skills, as well as my writing, and gave me the confidence to continue my academic studies. Reasoning skills, critical thinking, and effective communication skills, taught and honed at Cabrini, prepared me well for graduate school and law school, as well as a career in the federal government.

Current Career: Middle school teacher (history and math) at Holy Cross School in Springfield, PA

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in History?

I had a great history department in high school. My love for social studies began with having these high school teachers. When applying to Cabrini, it was a no brainer that I would want to study History.

What was the History major like?
The major itself has such a wide variety of opportunities to learn History through the lens of stories outside a typical textbook.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
I was blown away by the faculty of the History and Political Science Department. They bring history to life. They make their lessons relatable and relevant to the history we are witnessing in the present. From the moment I met Dr. Courtney Smith my freshman year, I saw not only the love and passion she had for the subject material but the eagerness to help her students grow inside the department itself. She was so helpful over my 4 years at Cabrini and with her (as well as the rest of the department) my passion for History grew to new levels.

How did your degree in History prepare you for your future goals, and career?
From Dr. Hedtke’s fun facts that he would mention during class, to Dr. Fitzgerald’s breakdown of getting us to write papers without sugarcoated details, I use the materials, information and classroom communication skills shown to me in my Cabrini classes with my own students.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major in History?
Try to take a class with every professor at least once. Every professor gives a different view into History and Political Science which allows you to expand your knowledge and lenses into the variety of information presented in this major. I would also say do not dismiss the major because you do not want to teach or be a lawyer, there are many different jobs that can come out of a History or Political Science degree that do not include teaching or practicing law.

Careers (former): Civil servant with the United States Department of State; Banking professional

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in History and Political Science? 
1. General interest in the subjects.
2. Desire to write better, do research and hone analytical skills.
3. Reputation of the professors as fair, brilliant and entertaining.

What were the History and Political Science majors like?
The courses were intellectually stimulating, the assignments were challenging, and the professors were knowledgeable and interesting.

How did your majors in History and Political Science prepare you for your future goals, and career?
The academic work honed my analytical research and communication skills, all of which were invaluable to me in graduate school, and my careers at the United States Department of State and in the banking industry.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major in History, or Political Science?
Take advantage of professors’ office hours and any personal help they offer. Don’t procrastinate and always communicate with your professors as early in the semester as possible if you are struggling and need help.

Current Career: Graduate student in Temple University’s Master of Education in Higher Education program

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in Political Science and minor in Black Studies?
I always loved politics and after taking Introduction to Political Science I knew I wanted to major in it. It also helped that I took the class during a presidential election year. The exact moment that I choose Black Studies as a minor was during my sophomore year. I was having a conversation with a co-worker about all the cool facts I learned in class and I knew I should pursue anything I was that excited about.

What was your favorite course, and why?
I loved all the classes I took but I have two favorites. The first is POL 261 - Political Ideologies. I loved this class because it broke down the political ideologies and how they have developed over the years. The second would be BLK 333 - Pro-Seminar: Applying Black Studies. This course allowed me to reflect on the skills I had acquired over the years and how to applied them to any career field.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The faculty. Dr. Hedtke, Dr. Mace, and Dr. Fitzgerald were all amazing teachers and made every class enjoyable. Their passion for the subjects they teach is contagious. I knew if I ever needed anything, I could reach out for help.

How did your major in Political Science and minor in Black Studies prepare you for your future goals, and career?
As I started my graduate program, everyone asked how my undergraduate major and minor relate to it. I always say: “Everything. Both subjects showed me how to analyze past events in order to predict future outcomes, and using data to make necessary changes.” Most importantly, my programs taught me the value of my own voice and how to use it to create change.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a major in Political Science, or a minor in Black Studies?
No matter what field you want to pursue you can never go wrong with these academic subjects because the skills and knowledge you learn are transferable to any career field.

Current Career: Director of School Age Coordination at Somerset Academy Early Learning Center, Philadelphia, PA

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in History and Black Studies?
Being a Black man in America and growing up in West Philadelphia provided me with a different perspective on history. I was very eager to learn more.

What were the History and Black Studies majors like?
They were eye-opening experiences, and I was able to grow not just as a student but as a person.

What was your favorite course, and why?
My favorite course was Introduction to Black Studies because this class was the turning point in my academic career. It pushed me to my full potential, as it is not your regular 100-level course. This class also introduced me to my mentor Dr. Joseph Fitzgerald who was key to me choosing to major in Black Studies.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The best thing about being a student in this department is the people you meet. You will have great professors that will push you to your full potential.

How did your degree in Black Studies prepare you for your future goals, and career?
My degree in Black Studies helped me because it is a problem-driven and solution-oriented discipline. I work in a school within a low-income area and what my colleagues and I attempt to do is fix the problem in the community by figuring out what resources the students may need. We can go about helping not just the child we work with, but their parents and other family members.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a focus in Black Studies, or History?
Be prepared to be challenged, come ready to learn, and put in the hard work to get the best out of your time. This is a wonderful department to be in, with wonderful people to meet.

Current Career: Attorney

What factors contributed to you choosing a minor in Political Science?
I thought the major in English, and minor in Political Science, would work well for career paths in either journalism or law, which were the two I was considering as an undergraduate.

Best thing about being a student in this department?
There was a lot of individual attention from the faculty.

How did your minor in Political Science prepare you for your future goals, and career?
The main thing that helped my career was the academic rigor and demand for clear, well-supported written work.  

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering a minor or major in Political Science?
Take courses that are unfamiliar and professors you have not taken before. The skills you will most need in professional life are the ability to adapt to new and unfamiliar environments, to master an unknown subject, and to work with new people.

Graduation Year: 2019

Additional credentials from Cabrini: Masters of Education in Secondary Education (’20); Certification in Special Education (’21)

Current Career: Social Studies Teacher - Joppatowne High School in Joppatowne, Maryland

What factors contributed to you choosing to major in History?
My love for history came at a very young age because of an amazing teacher in fifth grade. He would tell us stories about our local history while teaching us the foundations of U.S. history. When I was sitting in Dr. Jim Hedtke’s class my freshman year, that’s when I made the true connection to my love for history because of the storytelling at 8:15 in the morning.

What were the History and Black Studies majors like?
Every professor in the History and Political Science Department will challenge your critical thinking in many different ways.... about the world around us toward understanding how to apply social justice to the history discipline.

Did anything surprise you about your studies in this department?
The best decision I ever made was taking part in the Living and Learning Community “Realizing Dreams,” run by Dr. Courtney Smith. It allowed students to have a better understanding of social justice in history and introduced me to Black Studies. As a teacher now, I tell my seniors to take the classes that are most unique or interesting, even if they’re out of their comfort zone because you will never know if they may turn into your major.

What was your favorite course, and why?
I do not have a favorite course because each had a huge impact on who I am as a teacher. My top 4 courses are Modern American Literature (Dr. Smith), Gloria Richardson & Freedom (Dr. Fitzgerald), History of Art and Protest (Dr. Watterson), and Historiography (Dr. Mace).

Best thing about being a student in this department?
The relationships that you will create with your professors. They become family.

What tips/advice can you provide to students who are considering majoring in History, or a focus in Black Studies?
Make sure to take a class with every teacher in this department because none of them teach the same way. However, their teaching styles will help shape you into the historian or person you want to be.