Paul Ferraro, B.A. 1990
Bloomberg Distinguished Professor, Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, MD
1990 Major: History and Biology; M.S., Environment (1994)
How has being a History graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?
"The Duke honors program in History was an essential part of my development as a researcher and a writer. The ability to organize facts and communicate them in a concise, cogent narrative has been central to success in my career. This ability was first developed and honed through my participation in the History program at Duke."
What advice would you give students in Duke's History programs?
"First, don't worry too much about the specific courses that you take. Second, do focus on developing your skills as a writer - those skills are in short supply and can elevate your performance in any field that you end up in. I didn't end up working as a historian, but the research and writing skills I learned in the History program prepared me for a career in any research field of my choosing. Third, be wary of your own intelligence and ability to craft a persuasive narrative - it's easy in History for smart people to fool themselves into thinking they have uncovered a truth."
