When I decided to join the Global History program, I was already happily employed in a great job. I worked as an associate editor in an academic publishing company, but I wanted the chance to deepen my knowledge and understanding of history. Like many historians, intellectual curiosity rather than a desire for professional advancement drew me to the discipline. In true liberal arts form, I wanted to study history for its own sake rather than use it as an end for career advancement.

However, personal growth and knowledge were not the only benefits of completing the Master’s program. As I finished my degree, I received a job offer with the company I had worked for before moving to Berlin. My new position is a promotion from my old one, and I’m able to bring the skills and lessons I gleaned from the Global History Master’s program to bear every day.

I would encourage Global History students looking for employment to think creatively about what they want to do and the kind of life they want to live. Studying history doesn’t limit you to the field of academia, although it’s certainly a popular option. There are many other areas that involve history either directly or tangentially, including publishing, law, tourism, and international relations. I’d say to pursue the things you enjoy and to be intentional about what you want. I think you’ll be amazed at the doors that will open.