Life as a History Major at Bonaventure (Colin Bearer)

There is no greater joy than being a student. One can enjoy the independence of living away from family and experience the happiness of living in community with your peers, without many of the burdens and responsibilities that one must take on upon entering adulthood. With this in mind I chose to study history at St. Bonaventure University not with an eye on my future career, though that was certainly in my mind, but in the belief that I should study that subject which I most enjoy. I have never regretted this decision. Through my four years of study at university I have learned to appreciate new perspectives on topics that I once considered to be historical fact, have gained a wider knowledge of both American and World history, learned to appreciate the rigors and challenge of historical research, greatly improved my writing skills, and gained invaluable professional experience as an intern in the Friedsam Library archives. Studying history has not only been a fun and gratifying experience, but it has also allowed me to learn a number of professional skills which I can widely apply in either my future career or future studies at graduate school.

My Time at Bona’s as a History Major (Bella Quijano)

When I first arrived at St. Bonaventure, I had no clue what I wanted to study.  I was one of the  "undecided" students.  My first semester was full of new and wonderful experiences. I was not very concerned about picking a major. I just figured it would come to me at some point, and it did! I did not want to remain undecided for long, so I thought about what I truly enjoyed about learning and what exactly fascinated me. History fit the bill.

              The main reason I came to St. Bonaventure was because of its size.  In a small school I knew that I would have a better relationship with my teachers. Before deciding on any major, I really wanted to connect with my professors. I instantly connected with all of my history professors. All my history professors have been wonderful. In every history class I have taken, all my history professors have created an environment where everyone, not just history buffs, thrives and contributes to the discussion.