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"When I graduated from Smith in 1994, I took my new B.A. in American Studies and became a financial analyst at Solomon Brothers in Chicago. While there, I did not use any specific knowledge I had gained from my American Studies course work. However, I did use my improved writing skills and quick reading skills I acquired as an American Studies major. Eventually, I left the field of banking and began my career as a history teacher. I taught World Cultures and English in the sixth grade, Ancient Civilizations in the ninth, and the high school yearbook. Even though these classes were not about America, I did tie in our history whenever possible. Also, teaching a history class is the same no matter what the subject is, thus, I utilized some teaching techniques I enjoyed in college as a student. Two years ago, I moved to Boston and taught American history to seventh graders and World Cultures to eighth. Hence, my American Studies was an asset to my seventh grade class. Currently, I am teaching just eighth grade World Cultures and am the Assistant Director of the Middle School at Dana Hall. I truly believe that my background in American Studies aided me in my banking and teaching careers. Smith prepares its students to do a wide range of activities, and the American Studies department helped build my confidence and knowledge in a variety of subjects. The openness of the requirements really allows a student to grow academically. I have never regretted my choice of majors, in fact, I have always felt lucky to have such freedom to expand my interests and enlighten my mind." |
