“History classes are an environment of open-minded discussion and debate; a place to bounce ideas off one another.”
Bryn did not come to Gustavus planning to major in History, but since being at Gustavus she has found a deep interest in the content that she has explored in her history classes, and has realized that “history had nothing to do with trivial dates and names; rather it was the discussion and critical thinking skills that mattered”. While Bryn has found her History courses to be challenging, she has learned to enjoy the challenges, which have helped improve her reading and writing skills. She says, “While there is a lot of reading and writing, you will find that the readings are carefully selected and the writing assignments are designed to stretch your abilities”. Bryn has also appreciated the open conversation that she is able to have in her history classes. Her favorite professor within the History Department is Professor David Obermiller, whose classes are challenging, but who has also been an important figure for Bryn both academically and personally. She appreciates Professor Obermiller’s passion for the material that he teaches, and she feels that his passion is reciprocated by his students. She says, “Professor Obermiller expects a lot from his students but it’s because he is able to see the potential of each individual”. Bryn enjoys the history faculty as a whole, appreciating their focus on real-world skills and their openness to students on various career paths. In addition to her time spent within the History Department, Bryn is also involved on campus as a Peer MALT and a member of the Peer Assistants.