What are you up to these days?

I graduated from my master’s program at UIS in May 2022. I applied to a job in June in Grayslake, Illinois, and I accepted my position as Deputy Director of the Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum in July. My husband and I moved to a town called Lake Bluff nearby both our jobs.

Tell us more about your job

Prior to taking this position, I researched and created exhibits with the committee that opened the Sangamon Experience museum on the UIS campus, which has helped me immensely with my current job. Today I work on exhibits, plan upcoming programs, make community connections and partnerships, all of which I learned while working with Dr. Hunter and the Sangamon Experience team.

How did your UIS experience help you get to where you are? 

UIS offered an internship for me at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, and I could not have gotten this job without the lessons and encouragement I received from my supervisor. I also had an incredibly supportive cohort in the UIS history program. My incredibly patient and enthusiastic professors also inspired me to create a worthwhile thesis and exhibit.

What advice to you have for anyone considering an MA in History from UIS? 

Do not be afraid to make connections. Opportunities are all around if you take the initiative to find them. If something sounds interesting, reach out and email someone in charge to ask if you can help. Go to events and talk to those around you. Learning from the historical community offers the chance to learn the practicum of what life in the history field is like.