Lacy Feigh ‘12: History, Fulbright, and Doctoral Studies
While at PC, Lacy pursued majors in history and political science and minors in English and Chinese Studies. She was active in Student Volunteer Services, Sterling Student Ambassadors, and the History Club, among others. Lacy was a Chinese Scholar and traveled to China after her freshman year and then studied abroad in Cairo, Egypt during her junior year at PC.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO MAJOR IN HISTORY AT PC?
Coming to PC I had a strong interest in history that began in my high school AP US History course. After taking Dr. Heiser’s introductory history course, I was hooked! In history I am drawn to the narratives of people, the intricate complications of their stories, and the themes that connect people across space and time.
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE SINCE GRADUATING FROM PC?
Three weeks after graduating from PC I embarked for two years as an English teacher with the Peace Corps in Ethiopia. While there, in addition to teaching, I learned Amharic and engaged in culture sharing with members of my local community. Once I finished my time in the Peace Corps, I received a Fulbright English Teaching Assistantship in Amman, Jordan, where I once again taught English and focused on my language skills—this time Arabic. Currently, I’m enrolled in a Ph.D. program at the University of Pennsylvania where I focus on the history of the Horn of Africa, specifically Ethiopia, and the Middle East.
HOW DID YOUR HISTORY MAJOR PREPARE YOU FOR YOUR CURRENT CAREER PATH?
The History Department at PC prepared me very concretely for my current career path. The professors at PC introduced me to the discipline of history and provided me a strong foundation going forward to graduate school. PC’s History Department gave me the skills to enter one of the top-rated history programs in the country, at an Ivy League school, on par with my peers from more well-known schools. While at PC, I worked closely with my professors to find a passion in history which continues to drive me forward in my studies.