5 answers
Evan
Student
Walla Walla, Washington
1
Question
Updated
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What is the best way to work in a history field and get played well in it?
I am interested in woman’s and queer history and u would like to work in and around that field, what is the best way to go about that and get payed enough because I know a lot of museum and archive work is volunteer but i would like to work in those investments.
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5 answers
Olivia McDonnell
Consulting
23
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
There are a few options I can think of:
- Art Dealers: You can work in a gallery where high net worth individuals pay art dealers to identify pieces of work that would fit their collection.
- Professor: If you are interested in sharing your knowledge, you could become a history professor. After you have gained a few years of experience as a professor, universities will usually allow you to direct their research and lecture topics to fields they are interested in.
- Writer: You can write books, articles, blogs, etc. on those topics. As you build an audience, you will see the royalties for you work increase.
- Corporate Art Collections: Rather than working in a museum, you could work for a company which has a significant art/history collection. A company that I previously worked for had one of the largest corporate art collections in the world. They would frequently run exhibitions in our offices based on various diversity months like women's history month where they would spotlight women artists or women trailblazers throughout history. It wasn't uncommon for a Picasso or Warhol to be on the wall in a conference room and owning pieces of that caliber require a team to manage the collection. You may also want to look into the larger museums in big cities like NYC, LA, or Philadelphia. The larger museums have full-time employees who specialize in art preservation and curation.
Something you might want to consider are ways to look forward rather than through history. For example, there are venture capital funds which specialize in funding women entrepreneurs. These investments help facilitate women advancing their careers as the world continues to strive towards parity.
- Art Dealers: You can work in a gallery where high net worth individuals pay art dealers to identify pieces of work that would fit their collection.
- Professor: If you are interested in sharing your knowledge, you could become a history professor. After you have gained a few years of experience as a professor, universities will usually allow you to direct their research and lecture topics to fields they are interested in.
- Writer: You can write books, articles, blogs, etc. on those topics. As you build an audience, you will see the royalties for you work increase.
- Corporate Art Collections: Rather than working in a museum, you could work for a company which has a significant art/history collection. A company that I previously worked for had one of the largest corporate art collections in the world. They would frequently run exhibitions in our offices based on various diversity months like women's history month where they would spotlight women artists or women trailblazers throughout history. It wasn't uncommon for a Picasso or Warhol to be on the wall in a conference room and owning pieces of that caliber require a team to manage the collection. You may also want to look into the larger museums in big cities like NYC, LA, or Philadelphia. The larger museums have full-time employees who specialize in art preservation and curation.
Something you might want to consider are ways to look forward rather than through history. For example, there are venture capital funds which specialize in funding women entrepreneurs. These investments help facilitate women advancing their careers as the world continues to strive towards parity.
Judith-Ann Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) at AndeersonCounselingTexas( ACT)
106
Answers
Grapevine, Texas
Updated
Judith-Ann’s Answer
I like the way you're thinking. Both fields of women's studies and Queer studies are so needed. We have such a long way to go to educate people on both women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights. Here is what I see is needed in these areas: lots of education and lots of activism. If you like the ideas of educating and raising consciousness and awareness, then being an educator would be a good path to pursue. If you prefer activism, then policy and reform would be the arena to step into. If you like the idea of affecting change by being a policy maker, look for areas like law and congress. Working as a lobbyist or assistant to the congressional policy makers could be quite rewarding.
So to start now, look around for representatives and senators who support your beliefs in policy change for women and LGBTQ+ and explore ways to work with them. It might be a volunteer position at first, but you can get a feel for other positions around congressional areas to pursue. You might even work in the state capitol or the White House.
There is a great need for people of integrity, honesty, enthusiasm to work on your chosen areas. It would be a good idea to read biographies of the people you admire in the field of women's issues and LGBTQ+ issues. Some that come to mind
I Know This to Be True: Gloria Steinem Hardcover – March 24, 2020
by Geoff Blackwell (Editor), Ruth Hobday (Editor)
My Own Words Audible Logo Audible Audiobook – Unabridged
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Author), Mary Hartnett (Author), Wendy W. Williams (Author), & 2 m
Just Get on with It...
by Billy Gene King | Dec 1, 2000
Autobiography of My Hungers (Living Out: Gay and Lesbian Autobiog)
I know you will enjoy reading these books or perhaps finding documentaries to watch on your ipad or phone. We need you, so carry on!
So to start now, look around for representatives and senators who support your beliefs in policy change for women and LGBTQ+ and explore ways to work with them. It might be a volunteer position at first, but you can get a feel for other positions around congressional areas to pursue. You might even work in the state capitol or the White House.
There is a great need for people of integrity, honesty, enthusiasm to work on your chosen areas. It would be a good idea to read biographies of the people you admire in the field of women's issues and LGBTQ+ issues. Some that come to mind
I Know This to Be True: Gloria Steinem Hardcover – March 24, 2020
by Geoff Blackwell (Editor), Ruth Hobday (Editor)
My Own Words Audible Logo Audible Audiobook – Unabridged
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (Author), Mary Hartnett (Author), Wendy W. Williams (Author), & 2 m
Just Get on with It...
by Billy Gene King | Dec 1, 2000
Autobiography of My Hungers (Living Out: Gay and Lesbian Autobiog)
I know you will enjoy reading these books or perhaps finding documentaries to watch on your ipad or phone. We need you, so carry on!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1914
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Evan !
Your career interest in history sounds exciting and there are a couple of ways you can go about it. The one way that you would be able to be involved with history all the time in your work is to teach. You'd have to decide on how far you want to go with your degree and once you're finished you would go for a teaching credential. At this time, I would explore the different history majors. Which subjects are majors and which are courses that specialize in a specific topic of history. If what you definitely want is to work in a museum you can include Museology (the study of museums) within a History major. My advice is that majoring in History would probably open more opportunities for work.
The second thought is to consider social service work. You can pick a major in one of the social sciences and go into being a direct service professional or a Director or Manager for programs serving the population you are interested in. You will need to get a variety of experience working with many different populations, however, and when applying for jobs, you can apply to the specific population agencies. I would say that perhaps majoring in Sociology or Social Science would be of benefit. You will learn some history and can take sociology courses which focus on one population.
It is hard to say how much the pay would be. You would find out how much your salary would be by actually going on interviews. The employer will tell you the salary and that's the only way you can possibly know. It's not something that anyone can randomly predict. A good idea would be to register at Linked in and Indeed and read the job notices of your interest. You need to know what companies are actually out there and see what they require in a candidate and sometimes the salary is mentioned.
I advise that you should focus on a major for college right now. Also figure out if you want an Associates, Bachelors or a Masters degree because the degree will matter based on what jobs you apply for. Read various college websites and see which college offers a program that you like. The best way to have history in your life every day is to teach. The best way to have your specific population in your work every day is within a direct services realm. Take it a step at a time and make short term goals, ones that you can and want to do. Try not to overthink past the present and I think you will do well ! Best wishes to you in all you do !
Your career interest in history sounds exciting and there are a couple of ways you can go about it. The one way that you would be able to be involved with history all the time in your work is to teach. You'd have to decide on how far you want to go with your degree and once you're finished you would go for a teaching credential. At this time, I would explore the different history majors. Which subjects are majors and which are courses that specialize in a specific topic of history. If what you definitely want is to work in a museum you can include Museology (the study of museums) within a History major. My advice is that majoring in History would probably open more opportunities for work.
The second thought is to consider social service work. You can pick a major in one of the social sciences and go into being a direct service professional or a Director or Manager for programs serving the population you are interested in. You will need to get a variety of experience working with many different populations, however, and when applying for jobs, you can apply to the specific population agencies. I would say that perhaps majoring in Sociology or Social Science would be of benefit. You will learn some history and can take sociology courses which focus on one population.
It is hard to say how much the pay would be. You would find out how much your salary would be by actually going on interviews. The employer will tell you the salary and that's the only way you can possibly know. It's not something that anyone can randomly predict. A good idea would be to register at Linked in and Indeed and read the job notices of your interest. You need to know what companies are actually out there and see what they require in a candidate and sometimes the salary is mentioned.
I advise that you should focus on a major for college right now. Also figure out if you want an Associates, Bachelors or a Masters degree because the degree will matter based on what jobs you apply for. Read various college websites and see which college offers a program that you like. The best way to have history in your life every day is to teach. The best way to have your specific population in your work every day is within a direct services realm. Take it a step at a time and make short term goals, ones that you can and want to do. Try not to overthink past the present and I think you will do well ! Best wishes to you in all you do !
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Evan!
Working in the history field, particularly focusing on women’s and queer history, can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. While it is true that some positions in museums and archives may be volunteer-based, there are several avenues through which you can pursue a career in this field and potentially earn a competitive salary.
1. Education and Specialization: One of the best ways to work in the history field and command a higher salary is by obtaining advanced education and specialization in your area of interest. Pursuing a graduate degree, such as a Master’s or Ph.D., in history with a focus on women’s and queer history can provide you with the expertise and credentials to access higher-paying positions. Additionally, specializing in a niche area within this field, such as LGBTQ+ history or women’s rights movements, can make you more competitive in the job market.
2. Research and Academia: Engaging in historical research and pursuing an academic career can also lead to well-compensated opportunities. Universities and research institutions often seek historians with expertise in specific areas of history, including women’s and queer history. These positions may offer not only competitive salaries but also opportunities for professional development and research funding.
3. Nonprofit Organizations and Advocacy Groups: Nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups focused on women’s and LGBTQ+ issues often require historical expertise to inform their work. Working for such organizations can provide a meaningful career while also offering competitive compensation packages. These roles may involve conducting historical research, developing educational materials, or curating exhibits that highlight the contributions of women and queer individuals throughout history.
4. Museum Curatorship and Archival Work: While some museum and archive positions may be volunteer-based or offer lower salaries, there are opportunities for well-compensated roles in these institutions, especially for individuals with specialized knowledge. Curator positions at museums with a focus on women’s or LGBTQ+ history, for example, may offer competitive salaries commensurate with the level of expertise required for the role.
5. Government Agencies and Cultural Institutions: Government agencies, such as national archives or cultural heritage departments, often employ historians with specialized knowledge. These positions can provide stable employment and attractive benefits packages. Additionally, government-funded projects related to preserving women’s and queer history may offer grant-funded opportunities for historians to contribute their expertise while receiving compensation.
In pursuing a career in women’s and queer history, it is essential to network with professionals in the field, seek mentorship from established historians, and stay informed about job openings through professional associations such as the American Historical Association or the National Women’s Studies Association.
It is important to note that while pursuing a career in this field can be financially rewarding, it is also driven by passion for historical inquiry and a commitment to preserving marginalized narratives. By combining your passion for women’s and queer history with strategic career choices, advanced education, and networking within the field, you can position yourself for well-compensated opportunities that align with your interests.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
American Historical Association (AHA) - https://www.historians.org/
National Women’s Studies Association (NWSA) - https://www.nwsa.org/
National Archives - https://www.archives.gov/
These books offer a comprehensive understanding of women and queer history and can be invaluable resources for anyone interested in this field.
May you be showered with blessings!
James.
Working in the history field, particularly focusing on women’s and queer history, can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path. While it is true that some positions in museums and archives may be volunteer-based, there are several avenues through which you can pursue a career in this field and potentially earn a competitive salary.
1. Education and Specialization: One of the best ways to work in the history field and command a higher salary is by obtaining advanced education and specialization in your area of interest. Pursuing a graduate degree, such as a Master’s or Ph.D., in history with a focus on women’s and queer history can provide you with the expertise and credentials to access higher-paying positions. Additionally, specializing in a niche area within this field, such as LGBTQ+ history or women’s rights movements, can make you more competitive in the job market.
2. Research and Academia: Engaging in historical research and pursuing an academic career can also lead to well-compensated opportunities. Universities and research institutions often seek historians with expertise in specific areas of history, including women’s and queer history. These positions may offer not only competitive salaries but also opportunities for professional development and research funding.
3. Nonprofit Organizations and Advocacy Groups: Nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups focused on women’s and LGBTQ+ issues often require historical expertise to inform their work. Working for such organizations can provide a meaningful career while also offering competitive compensation packages. These roles may involve conducting historical research, developing educational materials, or curating exhibits that highlight the contributions of women and queer individuals throughout history.
4. Museum Curatorship and Archival Work: While some museum and archive positions may be volunteer-based or offer lower salaries, there are opportunities for well-compensated roles in these institutions, especially for individuals with specialized knowledge. Curator positions at museums with a focus on women’s or LGBTQ+ history, for example, may offer competitive salaries commensurate with the level of expertise required for the role.
5. Government Agencies and Cultural Institutions: Government agencies, such as national archives or cultural heritage departments, often employ historians with specialized knowledge. These positions can provide stable employment and attractive benefits packages. Additionally, government-funded projects related to preserving women’s and queer history may offer grant-funded opportunities for historians to contribute their expertise while receiving compensation.
In pursuing a career in women’s and queer history, it is essential to network with professionals in the field, seek mentorship from established historians, and stay informed about job openings through professional associations such as the American Historical Association or the National Women’s Studies Association.
It is important to note that while pursuing a career in this field can be financially rewarding, it is also driven by passion for historical inquiry and a commitment to preserving marginalized narratives. By combining your passion for women’s and queer history with strategic career choices, advanced education, and networking within the field, you can position yourself for well-compensated opportunities that align with your interests.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
American Historical Association (AHA) - https://www.historians.org/
National Women’s Studies Association (NWSA) - https://www.nwsa.org/
National Archives - https://www.archives.gov/
These books offer a comprehensive understanding of women and queer history and can be invaluable resources for anyone interested in this field.
May you be showered with blessings!
James.
Priscilla Gonzalez
Customer Insights Manager
8
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Priscilla’s Answer
If you're passionate about women's and queer history and want to turn that into a career where you can earn a good living, here's a more straightforward game plan:
1. Education is Key
Think about going to college for a degree in history, gender studies, or similar areas. This can really open doors for you. Later on, you might even consider a master’s degree, which can lead to better-paying jobs.
2. Aim for Higher Roles in Museums
While many museum jobs start with lower pay, there are higher positions like being a curator or a museum director that pay much better. These roles involve managing collections or entire museums.
3. Consider Working in Archives
Big archives, especially those run by the government or big companies, often have jobs that pay well. If you learn about digital archiving (storing information online), you can make yourself even more valuable.
4. Learn About Grant Writing
This is a skill where you write proposals to get money for projects. It's really useful in places like museums and historical organizations, and people who are good at it can earn a decent salary.
5. Think Beyond Museums
There are jobs in what's called ‘public history’, like working for historical societies or groups that focus on preserving history. These can have a variety of roles and might pay more than typical museum jobs.
6. Write or Create Content
If you like writing or making videos, you could create content about women's and queer history. This could be a side job at first, but if you get popular, it could turn into a good source of income.
7. Teach History
You could become a history teacher in a high school or even a college professor if you go for higher studies. Teaching can offer a stable income and a platform to share your passion.
8. Network
Get to know people who work in history, museums, or education. They can give you advice, tell you about job openings, and help you in your career.
9. Develop Extra Skills
Learning extra skills like how to use digital tools or multimedia can make you stand out. This means you could do a variety of jobs and not just be limited to one thing.
10. Government or Policy Work
Jobs in government agencies that focus on culture, education, or history can also be good options. These often have stable salaries and good benefits.
Remember, being passionate about your job is really important, especially in fields like history. But with some planning and learning the right skills, you can definitely find a career that you love and that pays you well enough to be comfortable.
1. Education is Key
Think about going to college for a degree in history, gender studies, or similar areas. This can really open doors for you. Later on, you might even consider a master’s degree, which can lead to better-paying jobs.
2. Aim for Higher Roles in Museums
While many museum jobs start with lower pay, there are higher positions like being a curator or a museum director that pay much better. These roles involve managing collections or entire museums.
3. Consider Working in Archives
Big archives, especially those run by the government or big companies, often have jobs that pay well. If you learn about digital archiving (storing information online), you can make yourself even more valuable.
4. Learn About Grant Writing
This is a skill where you write proposals to get money for projects. It's really useful in places like museums and historical organizations, and people who are good at it can earn a decent salary.
5. Think Beyond Museums
There are jobs in what's called ‘public history’, like working for historical societies or groups that focus on preserving history. These can have a variety of roles and might pay more than typical museum jobs.
6. Write or Create Content
If you like writing or making videos, you could create content about women's and queer history. This could be a side job at first, but if you get popular, it could turn into a good source of income.
7. Teach History
You could become a history teacher in a high school or even a college professor if you go for higher studies. Teaching can offer a stable income and a platform to share your passion.
8. Network
Get to know people who work in history, museums, or education. They can give you advice, tell you about job openings, and help you in your career.
9. Develop Extra Skills
Learning extra skills like how to use digital tools or multimedia can make you stand out. This means you could do a variety of jobs and not just be limited to one thing.
10. Government or Policy Work
Jobs in government agencies that focus on culture, education, or history can also be good options. These often have stable salaries and good benefits.
Remember, being passionate about your job is really important, especially in fields like history. But with some planning and learning the right skills, you can definitely find a career that you love and that pays you well enough to be comfortable.