Elizabeth Patterson is a History major, minoring in both Sociology and African American & African Studies. Her hometown is Pasadena, California.
What do you love most about history?
What I love most about history is the way it allows for me to gain some understanding of the feelings and experiences of the past. I love gaining context and understanding about the world around me by learning more about how things have come to be.
Why did you choose to be a history major?
I chose to be a history major because it was always my favorite subject in school and as I got older, I only became more drawn to the study of history. In high school, I had the opportunity to do two six-month research projects which allowed me to explore my love for historical research. I truly do not know what other major I would pursue if not history.
What are the favorite history courses you have taken?
I have enjoyed all of my history courses thus far, but I especially loved History 3083: Civil Rights and Black Power Movements and History 3085: African American History Through Film.
Do you have a favorite professor or professors? Who are they and why?
One of my absolute favorite Professors is Dr. Hasan Jeffries! I have taken 3 of his courses thus far and will try to take as many as I possibly can before I graduate. His courses never fail to be extremely insightful and engaging. The things I have learned in his courses have helped me to gain more direction and insight into how I would like to influence the world one day. I will always recommend one of his courses!
What’s one thing you wish every Buckeye knew about the past (and/or about the history department)?
I wish that every Buckeye knew that the study of history is more than just memorizing names and dates but rather it is about understanding the experiences of people before us. I truly believe that one cannot fully understand the present without understanding the past. And because of this, I hope every Buckeye will take the time to learn something about the past that may help to bring us all together in the present.