By Umar-Mark Victor
My Skeptic turned Enthusiasm: My Journey with History and International Studies
As I reflect on my academic journey, I am reminded of the pivotal moment that changed my perspective on history. In secondary school, I had the option to choose between studying government or history. Like many students, I was drawn to the familiar and the seemingly more practical option – government. But little did I know that my skepticism towards history would eventually turn into a passion that would shape my academic and professional pursuits.
Growing up, I had a misconception about history. I thought it was all about memorizing dates, events, and figures that seemed irrelevant to my life. I wasn't alone in this thinking. Many of my peers shared my skepticism, and we would often joke about how boring history was. But while my friends opted for history, I chose government, convinced that it would be more useful in my future career.
Fast-forward to university, and I found myself studying History and International Studies – a combination of both subjects I had previously thought were mutually exclusive. At first, I was apprehensive, wondering if I had made a mistake by not choosing history in secondary school. But as I moved deeper into the course, I realized that my initial skepticism was unfounded.
History and International Studies is a unique discipline that covers a broad range of topics, from historical events and figures to institutions, legislations, and governance. It's not just about memorizing dates and events; it's about understanding the complexities of the world we live in today. The course is designed to help students develop critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills, making it an exciting and challenging field of study.
One of the most fascinating aspects of History and International Studies is its interdisciplinary nature. The course draws on concepts and theories from various disciplines, including political science, sociology, economics, and philosophy. This means that students of history and international studies are equipped with a broad range of skills and knowledge that can be applied in various contexts.
As I progressed through the course, I began to appreciate the relevance of history in understanding contemporary issues. I learned about the importance of context, perspective, and interpretation in shaping our understanding of historical events. I also gained insights into the complexities of international relations, global governance, and the role of institutions in shaping our world.
My journey has taught me that history is not just about the past; it's about understanding the present and shaping the future. It's about learning from the successes and failures of previous generations and applying those lessons to contemporary challenges. As a student of History and International Studies, I have come to realize that this discipline is not just about memorizing dates and events; it's about developing a deeper understanding of the world and our place in it.
If you're a student of history and international studies, I hope my story inspires you to appreciate the value of this discipline. If you're considering studying history, I encourage you to take the leap and explore the many exciting opportunities that this field has to offer. Remember, history is not just about the past; it's about shaping the future.
So.. What You Can Learn from History and International Studies
- Critical thinking and analytical skills: History and International Studies teaches you how to analyze complex information, evaluate evidence, and develop well-supported arguments.
- Problem-solving skills: By studying historical events and contemporary issues, you'll develop the ability to think critically and make informed decisions about complex problems.
- Interdisciplinary knowledge: History and International Studies draws on concepts and theories from various disciplines, making it an excellent foundation for a wide range of careers.
- Understanding of contemporary issues: By studying historical events and contemporary issues, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of the world we live in today.
My journey with History and International Studies has been a transformative experience that has challenged my assumptions and broadened my perspectives. I hope that my story will inspire you to appreciate the value of this discipline and to explore the many exciting opportunities that it has to offer. Whether you're a student of history or just interested in learning more about the subject, I encourage you to embark on this journey and discover the many wonders that history has to offer.
