Alumni Pathways
A history degree isn't just about learning what happened in the past—it's about mastering the methods for studying it. It equips students with valuable and marketable skills applicable to a wide range of careers. Graduates have pursued careers in fields such as higher education administration, government, law, journalism, business, nonprofit organizations, and beyond. Understanding how to analyze and communicate historical contexts has practical applications in the world today. Alumni from Central’s History Department continue to make meaningful contributions to their communities, the nation, and the world.
It is important to stay connected with faculty and alumni, to learn where graduates have gone on to do. Please take this opportunity to share your experience since you have graduated from the Central History Department!
Alumni Testimonials
Alumni of the Department of History have achieved success in a wide variety of professional fields and careers. Here are what previous alumni considered important about their history degree.
Sergio Fontanez '06
National Security Professional and U.S. Air Force Veteran
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“As a National Security and Foreign Policy professional, I was required to have a working knowledge of the histories and cultures of other countries because many historical events still impact U.S. foreign engagement today. Research and writing skills have been invaluable throughout my professional career and graduate school. Even CEOs study the historic ebb and flow of American interests to understand how to market products effectively.”
Gloria Deibele, '18
Policy Analyst U.S. Forest Service
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“My first job after Central was as a paralegal at a small estate planning and administration law firm in Massachusetts. My background in history helped me stand out to the firm’s owner as someone who was adept at writing and research, an important aspect of the work done in the legal field. More recently, I have started work as a policy analyst for the U.S. Forest Service. In this field, it is essential to be willing to roll up your sleeves and analyze long, precise documents and summarize and respond in a lucid manner. While I am not ‘doing’ history, I am definitely using those key skills I honed while at Central.”
Kory Mills, '15
Performance Manager, City Of Hartford
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“There is a level of gravitas that is afforded to people who major in history. It shows a dedication to detail and an understanding of where we are and how we got there that translates beyond the study of history. Understanding people and the events that drive them makes you a more complete and compassionate person - the world needs a bit more of that. My advice is to learn as much as you can about different people and their stories. You can never predict the connections you’ll make by knowing about their countries history.”
Kate Raftery, '73
Senior Advisor at Peace Corps
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“I would say that the study of history is not solely the exploration of the past. It provides you with the foundation to understand current events and in some cases assists in informing the present and future. I got the chance to work with people who had a desire to contribute to the development strategies in Latin America and the Caribbean, who also understood the importance of bringing humility and appreciating local expertise and knowledge. My time at Central led me to Peace Corps, service, Latin America and the Caribbean and to an appreciation of the “other”.”