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Cara Simpson

History Major, Graduated 2004

I feel proud to have graduated from the history department, in a university surrounded by a historic city. I came to university with the preconception that I would concentrate my studies on the modern era, but the department makes it compulsory that students study at least one modern or medieval module. With hindsight it was of benefit to me because it gave me knowledge of another fascinating period of history and confirmed my love of the subject. I had studied the late 17th- and early 18th-century Britain at A-Level, and was keen to continue it at degree level. The course 'Modernization of England in the Eighteenth Century' added to my existing knowledge, and it was taught by an authority whose texts I'd read at A-level.

I studied a fantastic module which concentrated on the colonial history of America. I also studied a course in the history of America from the Declaration of Independence to the present day. Long ranging as it was, I particularly enjoyed the way that primary texts were brought into the course, encouraging me to read novels as a means of learning about history. I enjoyed this concept so much that I took it on as my special subject in my final year. Before then I did not realise how much knowledge you can gain by reading fiction or by studying art. The department has opened up my eyes to society. Whether through art or reading, the department hasn't just taught me about the past but the present as well. A good example of this is the course on Gender and War: Twentieth Century Experiences. Through it I learned how gender constructs affects society in more ways than I had previously imagined.

During my time at university I took advantage of many of the social activities on offer, although I must confess that not all of them contributed to my knowledge of history. However, there are ways that you can socialise and learn more about subject (unheard of but true). The history department has its own history society, run by students for students, and I became a member of the exec for 2 years. As well as organising visiting lecturers, we organised socials (many of them fancy dress) and film showings. Who said that historians are boring? I found it a great way of meeting others from the department who I did not necessarily know through seminars and was far more stimulating than a long stint in the library.

I have enjoyed being in Lancaster so much that I am here for another year as editor of the university's student newspaper SCAN. I know that the skills and memories I have acquired during my time with the history department will remain with me long after I leave.

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