History Graduate Student Association Interview with Aidan MacKinlay, Secretary

You and your research

I am a second-year M.A. student. My major field is modern U.S. history, focusing on the historical memory of the Civil War and the construction of the Lost Cause on the southern landscape. My minor field is public history. I am currently working on my master’s thesis, which focuses on the early 20th-century battles over the interpretation of the site of the Andersonville Prison Camp in Georgia.  

What is the difference between doing History as an undergrad and as an M.A. student?

The biggest difference that I have experienced as an M.A. student is that you get to foster a much closer academic and professional connection with your professors. Getting to research and network directly through my professors has been extremely rewarding. For that reason, my advice for undergrads that are interested in grad school would be to apply to programs that have scholars you really want to work with!  

How did your interest in history start more generally?

My interest in history began as a kid — my father was an archaeologist and my mother was a librarian, so the natural combination of their interests meant that we were always visiting historic sites. Getting to learn history by standing in the places that it happened formed the very framework by which I study and teach history today.

I keep history fresh and fun by engaging with the lesser-known historical sites and buildings around Tallahassee. My favorite way for passively engaging with history is by walking around cemeteries! It might seem morbid, but it can be surprisingly educational and very relaxing! 

What do you do as an HGSA officer?

My role in the HGSA is as the secretary. My main duties consist of taking the minutes at each body and board meeting, and just generally keeping the HGSA on schedule.

The HGSA makes a difference to grad student life because it offers a channel of communication between faculty and students. Furthermore, it gives grad students a built-in space for community, solidarity, and hopefully a little escape from the rigors of grad school.

What would you tell an incoming graduate student about joining the HGSA?

To an incoming grad student, I would emphasize that the HGSA is a place to meet other history grad students! I like to highlight the socials that we do, since they made me feel very welcome and included when I was new.