BA in History

Mike Daughtry, 2022

Mike Daughtry

How did you decide on the history major?

For as long as I can remember I have had a love of all things history. I knew that if I was to be successful in pursuing my education, that I would need to go into a field I was passionate about.

Are you minoring or double majoring in anything else? If so, how do the two work together – or separately?

While I am not officially double-majoring or minoring, I am taking a lot of government and geography classes that are complimentary to my historical studies. I am also starting the BAM (accelerated master’s) process to get a Master’s in Secondary Education (Humanities and Social Studies) this upcoming Spring.

What have you learned in a history class that really surprised you/changed your perspective?

The most important historical lesson I have come across is the notion that history is not objective. Rather than a fixed thing existing in the past, it is a subjective, highly varied, and evolving interpretation of the past that exists entirely in the present.

Tell us about your dream occupation…

My dream is to teach history in the high-school setting. I want to help spark a meaningful interest in history in students that will stay with them forever.

Have you had any internships? Or interesting jobs or volunteer experience? Tell us about it/them.

Before pursuing my educational goals, I served four years in the United States Marine Corps infantry. I deployed to over seven countries and had experiences unmatchable in civilian life.

Any accomplishments you’re proud of? Opportunities you’ve taken advantage of? Brag a little!

Aside from my military accomplishments, I am proud to be a first-generation college student with a 4.0 GPA.

Utilizing my Post-9/11 Gi Bill education benefits has been without a doubt the best decision I have made in my post-military life. I sincerely urge all veterans to make the most of this great tool that they earned through their service.

Tell us something people would be surprised to know about you.

Despite my current successes in college and goals to become a teacher, I had struggled immensely all through grade school; I never imagined myself being capable of earning a degree.