Alexandria (Lexie) Oates is pursuing a double major in History and Women's, Gender & Sexuality Studies. She is from Mount Victory, Ohio.
What do you love most about history?
I love discovering new materials that had been lost for decades. Finding and reading stories from just average people has made my college experience so gratifying. It's a privilege to retell the stories of others and I'm fortunate to be able help these stories live on forever.
Why did you choose to be a history major?
I chose to be a history major because I want to help young people, like myself, discover narratives that are so often left out in the public-school curriculum. Young people deserve to know the histories of the LGTBQ+ community, the Black community, women's history, and Indigenous histories.
What are the favorite history courses you have taken?
My favorite courses have been HIST 2452, Modern Jewish History, HIST 2610, U.S. Women's History, & HIST 3014, The Gilded Age and Progressive Era.
Do you have a favorite professor or professors? Who are they and why?
My favorite professors have been Dr. Margaret Sumner and Dr. Robin Judd. These women are both exceptional educators and have had a huge part in my college education. Dr. Sumner helped me discover my love for women's history and Dr. Judd helped me discover another special interest, modern European and Jewish history.
What’s one thing you wish every Buckeye knew about the past (and/or about the history department)?
I think everyone should investigate histories that are not directly related to ourselves. These topics can be eye-opening for people. Although it can be a heavy topic, I think everyone has an obligation to be aware of the more negative histories involving the United States. As Buckeyes, we have a responsibly to better our communities and that first requires a knowledge of the wrong doings we might have made in the past. Together as Buckeyes, we can truly make the world a better place for everyone.