Public History Application Essay Sample

Listening to both of my grandparents' accounts of German U-Boats off the coast of Virginia Beach, blackouts in Norfolk, Virginia during World War II, and my grandfather's first-hand accounts of serving in the Navy triggered my interest in history. My curiosity about the past inspired me further by looking at family photographs, heirlooms, and letters that explored their backgrounds. When I attempt to explain to people what I am studying in graduate school, family and friends often look confused. When I clarify that I would eventually like to work for a museum, the National Park Service, a library, or public and private archives, the light bulb turns on and they understand. The best way to describe the field of public history is in a concise manner that it is history beyond the traditional classroom setting and is relevant to real world situations. Studying history throughout school has deepened my interest in the subject; I gain great pleasure from discovering how people lived and societies functioned in earlier times. It has also helped me to understand how the present inseparably connects with the pa st. …show more content…
While volunteering, I began to question, the personal values that generated my interest in archival work. Several of my personal characteristics include my love of history, analytical thinking, my leadership abilities, dedication, and the personal commitment to complete a task. These personal values affirm my belief in my commitment to history and wish to share my enjoyment of the subject to the public. My beliefs and values help to reinforce my actions in the workplace as I place the importance of positivity first while on the job. Positivity in the workplace reflects my attitude and outlook on life, as I am a friendly natured person, who is willing to help both the public and coworkers with any task or