Meet our Students
HPS Student Profiles
We're thrilled to introduce you to some of the talented students you'll meet in the Department of History and Political Science. Starting in Fall 2024, we will profile a few of our students.
Introducing Emily Stolp...
- History Major
- Transfer Student
- History Club Co-President
- Viking History Aficionado
Why did you pick this major?
I chose this major because history has always been my favorite subject. I want to enter the field of historical conservation and preservation through museum education.
When do you plan to graduate?
Spring 2025
Where are you from?
Mulvane, KS
What has been your favorite class in your major?
My favorite courses that I have taken so far are HIST4203: Women in American History with Dr. Jones and HIST 4983: History of Corpses with Dr. Utne.
History of Corpses focused on burial practices of many cultures, and the technical side of corpse disposal around the world. [It] was one of my favorite courses because even though history as a subject focuses on dead people and what they are doing, we do not discuss death and dead bodies very often. This course focused solely on the history of death itself and how different cultures and groups deal with death and dead bodies. I also found our final project of creating a mini exhibit to be both fun and a great introduction to putting together a display of our research.
Women in American History focused on how women play a crucial role in the history of the United States and the effects of race, class, and social status. [It] was one of my favorites because many entry level history courses focus on men in history and tend to push women to the sidelines. Dr.Jones assigned some great books for the course that showcase the role of women in their respected society. I also really enjoyed our final project of researching, writing, and recording our own podcast episodes.
You can listen to Emily's podcast episode!
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities on campus or in your local community?
I am the current Co-President of the ATU History Club. This club is focused on creating a space for students and faculty to engage in their historical interest and be a part of a group of like-minded individuals. I am also a Transfer Orientation Leader where I welcome the incoming transfer student to Tech and give helpful advice based on my own transfer experience.
What has being an HPS student meant to your college experience?
I transferred to Tech from a community college where all of my classes were online. I never got to get the college experience until I transferred to ATU. The HPS department is so welcoming and encouraging to all students and is the reason I am able to get the college experience.
what do you plan to do after you graduate?
I am currently working on my application to the University of Iceland to participate in their Norse Culture and Medieval Studies Master’s Program. I am also currently working on my application to the Fulbright Program.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I truly believe that I would not have accomplished all that I have this past year without the support and help of the HPS department and professors. They pushed me to do more, be more involved, and work harder than I ever have before. I look forward to my future because I believe in myself and what I can accomplish.
In Spring 2024, Emily presented original research at the the Annual ATU Research
Symposium. Both presentations were based on research she conducted for her two favorite
classes : HIST4203: Women in American History with Dr. Jones and HIST 4983: History of Corpses
with Dr. Utne. You can view her slideshows and read her presentations at the Online Research Commons
@ ATU.
Introducing Maysie Morgan…
- Political Science Major
- Pre-Law Minor
- Zeta Tau Alpha alumna
- Emilia’s Mom
Why did you pick this major?
To make a long story short, I chose a major in political science with a minor in pre-law because I want to help struggling mothers, inspired by my own experience and time spent in courtrooms and with lawyers. My daughter motivates me to pursue a career where I can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others through the legal system.
When do you plan to graduate?
Spring 2025
Where are you from?
A tiny town near Stuttgart called Keo!
What has been your favorite class in your major?
My sophomore year Dr. Roger's American Government that I took with my best friend. [It] ended up being my favorite class because it really got into the nitty-gritty of how our political system works. We covered everything from the Constitution to the different branches of government and how they interact. Plus, I was able to take the class with some of my good friends who are also in my major, which made it a lot of fun. We had some great discussions and debates, and it was cool to see how the stuff we were learning applied to real-life issues. It really brought the subject to life for me.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities on campus or in your local community?
Yes, I'm actively involved in several extracurricular activities on campus and in my local community! I'm a member of the student government... [and] beginning this semester as the senior senator at Arkansas Tech. I've previously served as a sophomore senator. I've been an orientation leader and really involved in my sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha, where I held a leadership position before becoming an alumna! These roles have helped me build leadership and organizational skills and make some great connections on campus. Additionally, I coach a dance team, sharing my passion for dance with others.
On top of all that, I'm also a mom to a 9-month-old girl named Emilia. Juggling school, extracurriculars, and motherhood has been a lot, but it's also been incredibly rewarding! I've learned a lot about time management and multitasking, and it's pushed me to do my best in everything I do!
What has being an HPS student meant to your college experience?
Being a political science student has profoundly enriched my college experience by deepening my understanding of political systems, fostering critical thinking, and enhancing my advocacy skills. It has also connected me with a network of passionate peers and mentors, inspiring me to actively engage in campus and community initiatives! Being a poli-sci major during an election year is also an amazing experience.
Why did you choose ATU?
I took a year of classes through Tech in high school. I wanted to get a head start on college and see what it was like The classes were challenging, but the professors were super supportive and passionate about what they were teaching, which made a big difference. It also helped that I got to know the campus and the Tech community early on. This experience influenced my decision to come to Tech because I already felt at home here, and the transition to college life was a lot easier.
what do you plan to do after you graduate?
I plan on continuing my education at Bowen School of Law! Class of 2028!
What unique experiences or opportunities HPS has provided?
I had the incredible opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. with my school this summer, where I gained invaluable insights into the workings of the federal government and connected with influential policymakers!! This experience not only enhanced my understanding of political processes but also inspired me to pursue a career in public service!! I also grew closer to many students with my same major!!!
Maysie was one of nine HPS students who were funded to attend The Washington Center's week-long national security seminar in May 2024.