Abigail Christiansen is a double major in English and History and is from Columbus, Ohio.
What do you enjoy most about studying history?
Learning about new cultures and discovering new viewpoints.
Why did you choose to be a history major?
Originally, I was a history minor, but I realized that studying history makes me feel happy and like I’m doing what I was meant to do. I am passionate about uncovering marginalized stories and engaging with sources. So, I made the switch from minor to major and I am so grateful that I did because I might not have otherwise discovered the field that I am now pursuing as a career: historical dress and material culture in museum collections.
What are the favorite history courses you have taken at Ohio State and why?
HISTORY 3250: Revolutionary and Napoleonic Europe, 1750-1815; I have always been fascinated by the French Revolution and trying to understand human behavior at its extremes. Also, there is a lot of misconception around this era, so it was refreshing to start at the beginning and see where the evidence leads.
HISTORY 3641: Women and Gender in Early Modern Europe: 1450-1750; the subject aligns perfectly with my historical interests and Dr. Bond presents it in a fun and wholistic way.
If you could take the place of a historical figure (either dead or alive) for one day, who would you choose and why?
John, the disciple of Jesus Christ, so that I could meet Jesus in person and spend the day with Him.
What’s one thing you wish every Buckeye knew about the past?
There’s more to it than you think.
What do you like best about being a student at Ohio State?
High quality academics that encourage creativity, great faculty, and a sense of belonging.