How did you decide on the Art History major?
I originally began studying in Visual Art at another university where I was required to take art history survey courses as part of my curriculum. I really enjoyed them and wanted to pursue them more. When I transferred to GMU, I stayed in Visual Art, but I realized that I missed taking art history courses and learning about the history of art, the different movements and styles. The following semester I changed my major and signed up for as many art history courses as I could.
Are you minoring or double majoring in anything else? If so, how do the two work together – or separately?
I am minoring in Art & Visual Technology, concentrating in drawing and painting in addition to my Art History degree. I was originally a drawing major in Visual Art before changing to Art History and decided to keep it as my minor as I still enjoy perfecting my skills. They complement each other quite nicely as I can apply my skills from drawing and oil painting to fully understand art works I might be studying. When reading about how an artist went about their composition or the execution of the work, I can understand the process they might have gone through and used. Studying art history is also great for inspiration for experimenting with different techniques and methods in my own art.
What have you learned in an art history class that really surprised you/changed your perspective?
Everything in art is connected to everything else. One part of art history can influence or be influenced by another part whether it is a movement, a style or technique. Whether it happened in the preceding century or several prior to, art can take its influence from any time and place within history. It is also fascinating how art corresponds to the events that are taking place and can reflect the political and social society during that time.
Tell us about your dream occupation…
I would love to work as a museum curator or somewhere in the field of restoration and museum archives. It would be a great chance to experience different types of works and handle pieces of history.
Have you had any internships? Or interesting jobs or volunteer experience? Tell us about it/them.
I haven’t had a chance to do an internship yet, but am looking forward to the opportunity in the future.
Any accomplishments you’re proud of? Opportunities you’ve taken advantage of? Brag a little!
I was accepted into the Accelerated Master’s in Art History program this past summer and will continue after I graduate in the spring to work to receive my master’s degree. I have also made the Dean’s List every semester during my college career and am a member of the Tau Sigma National Honor Society here at George Mason. This upcoming winter break, I will be traveling to Florence and Rome with Mason’s Study Abroad Program to take advantage of an amazing opportunity to study the art and culture of the Renaissance.
Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.
I am a certified Irish Dance teacher and former Champion dancer. I competed in many regional, national and international championships and am a three-time World Championship qualifier. I was ranked in the top three in my region. In addition to going to school and working full-time, I spent the last year studying to receive my teaching certification and passed this last spring with honors.