5 answers
Alex
Student
West Stockbridge, Massachusetts
2
Questions
Asked
967 views
I need help finding a job that could help me have a job in history?
I'm in 9th grade and want to have a job as a history teacher. Does anybody know a job I could get that could help me on that path?
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5 answers
Melody Tharpe
Education - Teacher
169
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Melody’s Answer
Hey there, Alex! I can tell you're on the hunt for a job right now, but it's clear that you're not just looking for any old job - you're on the pursuit of passion, particularly in the realm of history. Yes, it's true that many history-centric careers usually call for higher degrees like a Master's or PhD, especially if you're aiming to teach at a collegiate level. But, let's think outside the box for a moment. Traditional career guidance might steer you towards the usual job roles, but what if you carved out your own unique path in the world of history, maybe by launching your own business?
I'm suggesting this because I know a guy who, although he majored in sociology, had a real love for history. He now leads what he dubs "Walking Talks," where he educates folks about local history. This could be a possible route for you to follow.
To kick things off, dive headfirst into the historical world around you. Offer your time at museums, get involved in outdoor historical reenactments, or explore outdoor museums. There's a wealth of history waiting to be discovered in the great outdoors. Connect with groups or organizations that are dedicated to preserving local history. This will introduce you to others who share your interests and can offer valuable advice and support.
Sure, going to university to study history is one option, but you might want to think about studying something that helps you connect with people and share your passion for history. A degree in communication or business could give you the tools you need to start your own history-focused venture. Some folks even become collectors and traders of historical artifacts.
Keep in mind, you have a world of options at your fingertips. Given your youth, the first step is to dive into the local history scene. Explore, learn, and let your passion lead you on your unique journey.
I'm suggesting this because I know a guy who, although he majored in sociology, had a real love for history. He now leads what he dubs "Walking Talks," where he educates folks about local history. This could be a possible route for you to follow.
To kick things off, dive headfirst into the historical world around you. Offer your time at museums, get involved in outdoor historical reenactments, or explore outdoor museums. There's a wealth of history waiting to be discovered in the great outdoors. Connect with groups or organizations that are dedicated to preserving local history. This will introduce you to others who share your interests and can offer valuable advice and support.
Sure, going to university to study history is one option, but you might want to think about studying something that helps you connect with people and share your passion for history. A degree in communication or business could give you the tools you need to start your own history-focused venture. Some folks even become collectors and traders of historical artifacts.
Keep in mind, you have a world of options at your fingertips. Given your youth, the first step is to dive into the local history scene. Explore, learn, and let your passion lead you on your unique journey.
Jerry Tingstad
Professor/middle school teacher/48 years
95
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
An interesting question at this present time re teaching.
And you are at a good point in your academic life. Ninth grade. Loads of time to think about your future, observe the teachers you now have in your classes and the other students in your classes. Maybe a BFF or two. All students need each other for support and hopefully offering constructive differing points of view.
And it also says something about you for actually asking this question at this time.
First: At this point in American academia I would not consider teaching history at a college or university level. Such institutions are cutting back on courses and many are cutting majors in all the social sciences. It is now tech or finance where the jobs are. A quick search of current news reports will confirm this. (In many ways you were born fifty years too late.) And such graduates may not feel fulfilled in their work, but good money will at least compensate for some of it.
On the other hand, teaching history at the middle or high school level is still an option. Especially in the state in which you live. And in the rest of New England for that matter. And other states, but that would take some research.
I've been in the Social Sciences all of my professional life. Thirty-eight years teaching American government and politics at the college level. Then ten years teaching modern European history (French Revolution and onward) in middle school. Also competitive essay writing.
The pinnacle of my career, from my point of view, was teaching middle school students. I always told my classes on the first day that "We're all in this together." We are a unit. We support one another. I'm not your friend. And I don't want you to be my friend. This is a professional relationship. I'm going to do my best to perform at the best of my ability. And you are going to perform at the best of your ability. And most students, aged 13 - 15, worked beyond their years. It's called "growing". And it carried on for them in their other classes. They discovered there was more to them that they knew when they entered class. So teaching is more than presenting a subject. It's personal and academic development. Discovering just how good you really are. And for the teacher discovering how good they really are.
Therefore it's still possible to teach the subject you wish to teach. And challenge students and take part in their growth. And they will take part in your growth.
And you are at a good point in your academic life. Ninth grade. Loads of time to think about your future, observe the teachers you now have in your classes and the other students in your classes. Maybe a BFF or two. All students need each other for support and hopefully offering constructive differing points of view.
And it also says something about you for actually asking this question at this time.
First: At this point in American academia I would not consider teaching history at a college or university level. Such institutions are cutting back on courses and many are cutting majors in all the social sciences. It is now tech or finance where the jobs are. A quick search of current news reports will confirm this. (In many ways you were born fifty years too late.) And such graduates may not feel fulfilled in their work, but good money will at least compensate for some of it.
On the other hand, teaching history at the middle or high school level is still an option. Especially in the state in which you live. And in the rest of New England for that matter. And other states, but that would take some research.
I've been in the Social Sciences all of my professional life. Thirty-eight years teaching American government and politics at the college level. Then ten years teaching modern European history (French Revolution and onward) in middle school. Also competitive essay writing.
The pinnacle of my career, from my point of view, was teaching middle school students. I always told my classes on the first day that "We're all in this together." We are a unit. We support one another. I'm not your friend. And I don't want you to be my friend. This is a professional relationship. I'm going to do my best to perform at the best of my ability. And you are going to perform at the best of your ability. And most students, aged 13 - 15, worked beyond their years. It's called "growing". And it carried on for them in their other classes. They discovered there was more to them that they knew when they entered class. So teaching is more than presenting a subject. It's personal and academic development. Discovering just how good you really are. And for the teacher discovering how good they really are.
Therefore it's still possible to teach the subject you wish to teach. And challenge students and take part in their growth. And they will take part in your growth.
Your comment has been very helpful, thanks so much
Alex
Nyair Washington, M.A., LGPC, NCC
School-Based Therapist
22
Answers
Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Updated
Nyair’s Answer
Hello Alex,
Firstly, consider exploring if your school offers a child development program. These programs typically kick off in 10th grade, providing you with internship opportunities and a certification near completion! However, if this isn't an option, consider babysitting, tutoring, or securing a position at a local daycare.
Remember, teaching is a craft honed through practical experience. Even working with an age group that might not be your niche/preference can equip you with essential classroom management skills, instructional practice, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability unique to the teaching profession (my own journey started with a daycare job at 15!)
Tutoring can be a fantastic way to practice explaining History concepts from various angles, a crucial aspect of effective teaching! Babysitting demands patience, adaptability, likability, and problem-solving skills, which also serve as a solid foundation for your teaching career.
However, you might need to wait until next year to secure a daycare job, as it will require a work permit!
Firstly, consider exploring if your school offers a child development program. These programs typically kick off in 10th grade, providing you with internship opportunities and a certification near completion! However, if this isn't an option, consider babysitting, tutoring, or securing a position at a local daycare.
Remember, teaching is a craft honed through practical experience. Even working with an age group that might not be your niche/preference can equip you with essential classroom management skills, instructional practice, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability unique to the teaching profession (my own journey started with a daycare job at 15!)
Tutoring can be a fantastic way to practice explaining History concepts from various angles, a crucial aspect of effective teaching! Babysitting demands patience, adaptability, likability, and problem-solving skills, which also serve as a solid foundation for your teaching career.
However, you might need to wait until next year to secure a daycare job, as it will require a work permit!
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
354
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi Alex - you have asked an excellent question, and Michelle has given you terrific advice. We have relatives involved in re-enactment, and they have learned a great deal of history and had many opportunities to share their knowledge with visitors to the site. Re-enactment trains them to present history in an exciting way, which is also good for a future training career.
To get more experience with teaching, you might also want to explore helping teachers in your school (although not one of your current teachers) prepare for classes, grade assignments, or tutor students. Even if the subject is not history, it would give you a feel for what it is like to be a teacher.
Good luck!
To get more experience with teaching, you might also want to explore helping teachers in your school (although not one of your current teachers) prepare for classes, grade assignments, or tutor students. Even if the subject is not history, it would give you a feel for what it is like to be a teacher.
Good luck!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1921
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Alex !
Good question about being involved in History !
Career Village is happy to give you advice and help guide you in some possible good directions, but we are not an employment website for jobs. Being 14 I imagine that you wouldn't know of any jobs you can obtain involving History (what kind of History do you mean ?), but there are some things that you can do before you begin your education and career path. It's great to start learning while you are 14 and maybe my advice can be useful to you while you are in 9th grade.
It's not that you "get a job", first you'd have to decide to major in History in college and then decide which segment of "history" you'd like to focus on. A general education in History will be most useful to you and you can lean on a favorite or specialty outside of school through groups, activities and events focused on what you like best. Once you obtain a Bachelors Degree in History, you can decide if you want to continue for a Masters Degree in History which will enhance your probability of obtaining work. With the Masters Degree, you can even teach History at the High School and College level with also getting your teaching credential. While you are in college, you will be introduced to people, places and things that will help you meet contacts and opportunities to network which will expedite your chances for work.
Also while you are in college, you will have opportunities to get experience, work on projects, attend conferences, workshops and trainings. So right now, you can put your focus on volunteer work and extracurriculars while you are in high school. I want to emphasize that at 14, employment just may have to wait a couple more years, but volunteer work can be just as valuable if not more for right now.
Discover The West Stockbridge Historical Society (link is below). They take volunteers and sometimes they have historical re-creation reenactments. I think you'd find that an awesome experience to be a part of. They also hold events and concerts that you can volunteer at. I live very near a historical site and they do a re-enactment of the civil war once a year, or at least they used to, and people that are really into history go. They use a cannon and everything. Your Historical Society seems as though they can offer a lot !
Another place for many resources and possible volunteer work would be at The Stockbridge Library Museum and Archives for which I have left a link for you below.
Remember that if you are seeking actual paid employment, you will have to obtain your Work Permit from your school and you would only be able to work in your state of Massachusetts in extremely limited cases. You can do a search for your state's labor laws for under age 18 by doing a search online.
Ask around at school if there are any historical groups in school that you can join. You can do many things from now until you enter college that will give you more and more knowledge about history. Try not to rush it, it is a process that you must experience. As a high school Senior, that is when you can ask about the current educational guidelines, obtaining the information from your guidance counselor about the exact path that will lead you into your career interest as a History Teacher. In the meantime, learn more, do more and a paying job will come around for you eventually.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best for your exciting experience with history !
THE WEST STOCKBRIDHE HISTORICAL SOCIETY WEBSITE https://www.weststockbridgehistory.org/
THE STOCKBRIDGE LIBRARY MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES https://stockbridgelibrary.org/
Good question about being involved in History !
Career Village is happy to give you advice and help guide you in some possible good directions, but we are not an employment website for jobs. Being 14 I imagine that you wouldn't know of any jobs you can obtain involving History (what kind of History do you mean ?), but there are some things that you can do before you begin your education and career path. It's great to start learning while you are 14 and maybe my advice can be useful to you while you are in 9th grade.
It's not that you "get a job", first you'd have to decide to major in History in college and then decide which segment of "history" you'd like to focus on. A general education in History will be most useful to you and you can lean on a favorite or specialty outside of school through groups, activities and events focused on what you like best. Once you obtain a Bachelors Degree in History, you can decide if you want to continue for a Masters Degree in History which will enhance your probability of obtaining work. With the Masters Degree, you can even teach History at the High School and College level with also getting your teaching credential. While you are in college, you will be introduced to people, places and things that will help you meet contacts and opportunities to network which will expedite your chances for work.
Also while you are in college, you will have opportunities to get experience, work on projects, attend conferences, workshops and trainings. So right now, you can put your focus on volunteer work and extracurriculars while you are in high school. I want to emphasize that at 14, employment just may have to wait a couple more years, but volunteer work can be just as valuable if not more for right now.
Discover The West Stockbridge Historical Society (link is below). They take volunteers and sometimes they have historical re-creation reenactments. I think you'd find that an awesome experience to be a part of. They also hold events and concerts that you can volunteer at. I live very near a historical site and they do a re-enactment of the civil war once a year, or at least they used to, and people that are really into history go. They use a cannon and everything. Your Historical Society seems as though they can offer a lot !
Another place for many resources and possible volunteer work would be at The Stockbridge Library Museum and Archives for which I have left a link for you below.
Remember that if you are seeking actual paid employment, you will have to obtain your Work Permit from your school and you would only be able to work in your state of Massachusetts in extremely limited cases. You can do a search for your state's labor laws for under age 18 by doing a search online.
Ask around at school if there are any historical groups in school that you can join. You can do many things from now until you enter college that will give you more and more knowledge about history. Try not to rush it, it is a process that you must experience. As a high school Senior, that is when you can ask about the current educational guidelines, obtaining the information from your guidance counselor about the exact path that will lead you into your career interest as a History Teacher. In the meantime, learn more, do more and a paying job will come around for you eventually.
I hope that this is helpful and I wish you all the best for your exciting experience with history !
Michelle recommends the following next steps: