BA in History

Ari Smith, 2026

How did you decide on the history major?

When I first started college, I was convinced that the only “valuable” degree was one that led directly to a high-paying job - first-generation college kid thoughts… But the more classes I took, the more I realized that history was the only subject I genuinely loved. I've always been fascinated by understanding why the world is the way it is, and nothing scratches that itch quite like history. As I questioned what I truly found meaningful and worth pursuing in life (which was a long and tumultuous ride), history kept calling to me, so I followed it.

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

I’m not currently minoring or double majoring, but I do use my elective credits strategically to work toward meeting education endorsement (teacher prep) requirements. It helps me stay focused on history while preparing for the path I want to take after graduation.

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

Honestly, every class I've taken has changed my perspective in its own way. When I first considered majoring in history, I thought I might end up doing archival work, maybe working in D.C., or field research. But as I took more courses, I realized they were changing the way I understood the world around me. I felt like I gained more empathy, more perspective, and simply more to offer the world because I understood it better. It made me think: if everyone had access to this kind of knowledge, maybe things would be different. No other subject I've ever taken courses in has made me feel so connected to the world I live in, and every history course adds another layer to the bigger picture.

Tell us about your dream occupation…

My dream occupation is to teach middle school, high school, and eventually college, especially in rural areas. Once I've built that experience, I'd love to open a bookstore and host a historical society-style club, getting kids, teens, and adults involved in the community while learning about history. Teaching feels like the perfect way to combine my passion for the subject with my desire to help others understand the world.

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

After transferring to Mason from community college, I was offered a long-term substitute position in my school district, teaching civics and geography to middle schoolers for an entire year. It was genuinely one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. People are always surprised when I say it might be my favorite job ever, but if you've never worked with kids, I highly recommend it! I loved it so much that I was even invited back the next year to work with high school students. That experience is what solidified my desire to teach 100%.

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

My work in the school district is still my proudest accomplishment. I keep in touch with former colleagues who constantly encourage me to return to education, and every now and then, I run into former students who are eager to catch up. I’m incredibly grateful to the administrators, faculty, and students who helped me discover my calling - and even more grateful that my calling happens to be something I’m truly passionate about.

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

Despite majoring in history, I actually prefer all things fiction. I own over a thousand fiction novels, basically enough to qualify as a personal library, and I’m an enthusiastic collector of VHS tapes, DVDs, and old media systems. I even dressed as Patrick Bateman from American Psycho for Halloween last year, and I already happened to own a Walkman with the classic foam headphones!