Claire King
Claire King
Class Year
’15
Hometown
Joliet, Ill.
Major(s)
Classical Archaeology, History
Minor(s)
Geography and Earth Science, Geographic Information Science
Claire King knew she wanted to study history since she was in fourth grade, and what better way to do so than digging it up! Claire is a double major in Classical Archaeology and history with minors in Geography and Earth Science and Geographic Information Science.
“I want to travel to as many places as I can and meet as many people as I can,” she said. “I just find people and their experiences so interesting; each person is living history.”
Career goal
“To be an archaeologist and maybe to write for National Geographic.”
How have Carthage faculty had an impact on your life or Carthage career?
“My two favorite professors that I have had would have to be Prof. Murphy and Prof. Edsall. Both of these teachers inspired me to tack on my geography and GIS minors simply through their passion for the subjects.”
Favorite class
“Soil science during my sophomore year. It’s so much fun to play with dirt!”
Campus involvement
“International Friendship Society, Geography Club, Phi Alpha Theta History Fraternity, and Vice President of Eta Sigma Phi Classics Fraternity.”
Toughest class
“Historical Methods during my sophomore year. It takes a lot of patience and time to look through sources for a big paper, but it’s worth it in the end when you have a 17 page paper to show for it!”
Internships or on-campus employment
“I am hoping to do a history internship at the Kenosha museum during this J-Term. I have also just recently been nominated for Smeds Executive Internship Program that will take place at a museum of my choosing. After my summer internship, I would then be required to present a presentation about my experience to Mr. Smeds and President Woodward. I would also receive a $500 stipend for completing this internship.”
Opportunities at Carthage
“Carthage has helped me to become more competitive in my fields of study. I only thought about double majoring in history and archaeology when I first came here. Carthage helped me to see that double minoring in geography and GIS would help me much more in securing a job after school. I am also going on my first J-Term trip to Israel this summer. Every student should take the opportunity to go on a J-Term trip at least once during college!”
Favorite moments and memories at Carthage
“Having the chance to meet so many amazing people and professors!”
Favorite spot on campus
“My favorite spot is anywhere with a view of the lake! But, I mostly find myself stashed away in some corner of the library.”
Biggest surprise so far
“Learning that I have to study class material a bit everyday. You can’t get away with studying the night before like in high school. College professors expect a lot more from you.”
What would your 8-year-old self think of you now?
“I would give myself a thumbs up that I didn’t let my curiosity or my adventurous streaks fade out.”
Why should other students consider your major? What advice do you have for them?
“Don’t be afraid to choose a major that is uncommon. I once read ‘if your dream doesn’t scare you, it isn’t big enough.’ I’m scared everyday about how I’ll find a job as an archaeologist after college, and I’m okay with that. I would never forgive myself if I let my fear keep me from experiencing everything I want in life.”