6 Simple Ways to be an Outstanding History StudentJanuary 17, 2020

You want to pursue a degree in History, and you intend to stand out. Frequent visits to the museums would make admissions tutors notice you right away. You're excited about career prospects, and a curator would be one of those options. Is it good enough?

Let’s try to apply, if not play around, historical events and figures; the chain of past events wouldn't be changed if you remove the people involved in it. So it would be safe to say that another Englishman could be the first (Englishman) to set foot in Australia if it wouldn't be William Dampier. The same thing goes with James Cook, which could make you think about an exciting essay topic. It's an argument from a Young-adult bestseller, which is the least you expect. Then again, Young-adult fiction overlaps history and other genres, which should give you an idea of what you're about to get into. The study of history requires knowledge in literature. (You must be wondering about Historical fiction, but it could be a waste of time. Ask another student, who is studying Literature.) You also have to know a few things about botany and zoology (if you haven't been to the Australian Museum). If you're thinking of current events, if not not-so-recent events, then you must think out of the box. There are endless possibilities, an exciting thought that could drag you for hours (if you get stuck in it). You can't afford to spend a long time on one paper, though. What else?

Graduates wouldn't advise you to get hooked to History, and no one would be interested in Tintin. If you want to be an outstanding History major student, you must try something else.

Connecting the Dots: How Much Reading is Involved?

What are you interested in? The best thing about being a History major is the free time. There's a good chance that you won't be required to attend lectures, which should delight you. You fancy study-life balance, and the degree program would ensure that it won't be an issue at all. However, your professors would like to know what aspects of a historical event (or series of events) that pique your interest. And you must write about it. A good example would be the terrifying novel depicting the (doomed) fate of the crew aboard HMS Erebus and HMS Terror. Both ships are attempting to pass through the Northwest Passage, a cue that you must provide lots of key details on the economic and social aspects that prompt the powers of Western Europe to seek a shortcut from the (spices in the) Far East. It would be additional work, if not your cup of tea. You must beat the deadline, though. The moral lesson would be to do your homework (and do it well).

How many historical sites? You're not required to visit all the museums in your area, but it would be cool if you do it. The study of history can be compared to a pursuit of a certain vocation, where you're not bent on making lots of money from it. The Internet may save you some time, but your professors would sense your genuine interest if you visit such public places. You might have to start with the local parks.

Do you have a volunteering experience? If you're truly passionate about history, you must have volunteered as a (young) curator. You must have planned it, and then highlight it in your application. You can also be spontaneous about it, considering the possibility of deferring your entry and volunteer in another country. (You're tempted to study the Spanish language, as you've often dreamed about Peru.) Money would be an issue, so visit any local museum and make inquiries about volunteering opportunities. There might be another one, which is not related to a significant historical event. Think of a creative approach.

Do you fancy a particular time period? The answer to the question might give you goose bump, as it won’t be the last time you would be asked of such question. You must read more without thinking too much about past experiences. You would figure it out when you least expect it.

Is history useful in the business world? Don’t ask the entrepreneurs. Make a guess instead.

What is historiography? Your first month should give you a clear idea that History major students didn’t enroll in the program for the theory. It would make a lively conversation after dinner, but your insight is more important. Always remember whenever you’re struggling to write your paper.

What's a Day-to-Day Life Look Like?

The above questions should help you arrive to a very distinctive feature about the (History) program, which has something to do with reading. Your success won’t be measured on the high number of historical books and related materials, online articles included, as your professors want to know your perspective on a historical event. After all, the past becomes more interesting if you add your own opinion to the others. It may be unpopular, but you won’t be bashed for it. In other words, this other form of exercise would make you more rounded. If you disagree with it, then consider a dual degree. It would overwhelm you, but passion and persistence pay off.

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