The Dynamic Path to Academia
Four graduates from the Department of Art History give us a look at the unique interests that led them to their respective graduate programs. They share stand out moments from their undergraduate major, as well as how the department prepared them for advanced academia.
This interview series was conducted by a student in Backpack. Meet the team.
Caitlyn Carr, a graduate from the U, is currently finishing her Masters in Art History at American University. Her thesis involves ideas of visual culture and postmodern theory. She says, “I appreciate that the department required a senior thesis paper because it gave me some experience when it came to writing mine for my masters program.” Read Caitlyn's Q&A.
Nastasya Kosygina currently attends a PhD program in visual studies at the University of California, Irvine. She focuses on the art and archaeology of the late antique Near East and eastern Mediterranean. She says, "[the department] shaped the way I think about material culture… and contributed to my writing and argumentation style.” Read Nastasya's Q&A.
Maggie Schuster is currently in her second year PhD program at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her research focuses on Mughal architecture commissioned by royal women. A highlight of her undergrad experience was receiving funding from UROP (Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program) to create an exhibition and symposium with her metal casting class. She appreciates that “many of the art history faculty were extremely helpful in both the application writing process and throughout the course of the project.” Read Maggie's Q&A.
Note: Since a photo of Maggie Schuster was not available, please instead enjoy this photo of a sculpture on UMN's West Bank.
Marit Anderson is currently attending the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, pursuing an MA in art history. Reflecting on her time at the U, she says that the art history program’s capstone class “helped [her] learn to write more clearly for a more diverse audience.” Read Marit's Q&A.
