Patrick Willis, B.A. 2002
Meat Commodities-Accountant – Asheville, NC
2002 Major: History
How has being a History graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?
"Living in small-medium city, my degree does not offer me a lot of benefits it would being in a larger city. There are not many history-related opportunities in Asheville, NC. However, the overall benefit of a history degree, instead of "teaching us not to repeat the mistakes of the past" trope, in reality teaches us why people do what they do-why they make the decisions they do. This teaches critical thinking, a skill that is underutilized in a lot of today's world."
What advice would you give students in Duke's History programs?
"If you're looking to use your history degree in a professional, seriously think about where you want to live and the opportunities there. I believe the department (and university in general) was preparing me for graduate school moreso than a career immediately after school. So think about what you want to do after you graduate as well! Take advantage of the connections you will make at Duke."
