Sharon Hess '14 - History
Sharon Hess '14 - History
One of Millersville’s recent graduates and a member of the National History Honor Society, Sharon Hess now works at the York County Heritage Trust as a library registrar. When her library receives new donations, Hess decides where books should go based on historical research on each piece, a skill she learned as a History major at Millersville. During her time here, Hess was one of Millersville’s top History students, joining our chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the National History Honor Society. Additionally, she interned at the Pennhurst Memorial & Preservation Alliance, setting up a conference for individuals who were interested in trying to preserve the history of mental health institutions. When asked how Millersville helped shape her career, Hess responded, “Dr. Robyn Davis inspired me to do a lot of things that I would have otherwise been too intimidated to do. She really pushed me when I needed pushing and was one of the best parts of attending Millersville!”
Interview
What made you decide to come to Millersville University?
It was the location primarily. I needed to stay close to my home in York. Also, Millersville had a great reputation for History, which I majored in. The location, price, and of course the reputation of my department.
What was one of your biggest accomplishments during your time at Millersville?
Participating in the seminar at the McNeil Center for Early American Studies. My honors thesis advisor suggested that I take part in this undergraduate research seminar and it helped me greatly with my thesis. Being connected to a prestigious organization like that is something I am very proud of.
Were you involved in any internships or student research during your time here?
Yes. I had an internship with the Pennhurst Memorial & Preservation Alliance. It was a research internship. We were setting up a conference for individuals who were interested in trying to preserve the history of mental health institutions.
How has your historical research prepared you for your career?
Right now I am working at the York County Heritage Trust as a library registrar. When we receive new donations, it is my job to decide whether or not they have a place in our library collection and where they should go; a lot of that has to do with historical research on each piece. These are skills I have learned as a History major.
Overall, how did Millersville get you to where you are today?
Dr. Robyn Davis inspired me to do a lot of things that I would have otherwise been too intimidated to do. She really pushed me when I needed pushing and was one of the best parts of attending Millersville!
Why should students come to Millersville to study History?
The setting is great, as it is in a small town. The departments are great and the professors are wonderful. Also, College isn’t getting any cheaper and Millersville is one of the few institutions that is still affordable.