Job Title
Historic Interpreter II, Duke Homestead State Historic Site
Job Description
I am a historic interpreter, which at Duke Homestead means I head up living history and interpretive demonstrations on the site. I do costumed interpretation and demonstrate historic skills of the 1870s, from cooking to fence building to growing and harvesting tabacco. I also aid in event planning throughout the year, and head up the junior interpreter program at the site.
Favorite thing about your job
No day is the same. One day I may be helping plant crops, and the next the site is giving a program on motherhood in the 1870s. Everyone brings their own experiences to the site, and that always makes for new conversations and connections. There is always something new to learn, and it keeps me on my toes.
Favorite thing about your experience in our MA program
Every semester we worked in the field, directly with community members, which is so important! Not only were we getting practical experience as public historians, we were learning valuble lessons about knowing your community and building partnerships. The community, the professors, and your cohort want you to succeed, and will help you grow your skills.
Any advice for future students
Your cohort is there to grow and learn with you, and can be some of your strongest allies. Get connected and stay plugged in with your cohort, your professors, and other graduate students outside of the field. It is ok, and necessary, to take time for yourself, do not feel guilty about taking a step back from the books!