Claire Bromley

“After graduating, I will take a gap year to explore where I want my career to go! I plan to take part in a graduate program to receive my master’s degree, although in what field remains to be seen. I hope to continue my studies in the art-historical vein, make my career in museum work, and someday write a book.”

“My relationships with Carthage faculty have been some of the highlights of my college years. My professors have truly seen me and my struggles and taken both seriously. They also add an element of fun! It’s so much easier to engage in class when you know your professor. It’s also great to be able to say hello or grab coffee when you see your former professors around campus.”

“Jazz Literature, taught by Professor Shannon Brennan, changed my life. The course combined four of my passions: dancing, writing, reading, and jazz music. I learned so much while engaging my body as well! This class brought together so many wonderful students with a professor whose passion for teaching is palpable, a match made in heaven! I made so many friends in this course and even received a letter of recommendation from Prof. Brennan. I couldn’t recommend this class enough.”

“I am the secretary of the French Club, the chaplain of Pi Theta sorority, and a member of the English Players.

“French Club is such a hoot with great people, delicious food, and opportunities to keep my speaking skills sharp.

“I joined Pi Theta as a senior (very much on the late side) by couldn’t be happier to have done so; those girls mean a lot to me! Having a chance to be on the eboard and have a daughter all in my short time makes me very lucky.

“English Players is a group that does staged readings/memorized performances of Shakespeare’s plays just for the fun of it. It’s a great group of nerds who come together over a love of the text.”

“Advanced French was very difficult for me. Speaking French at the college level is no joke! I was often too in my head about all the rules of speaking to actually speak well. I have learned since then to just speak as naturally as I can and accept corrections with grace.”

“I was fortunate enough to participate in research for the Shoen Collection of Soviet Art that was donated to Carthage and displayed in the ‘Milestones’ exhibition. This kind of hands-on work was so valuable to me for allowing me to dip my toe into the museum/gallery work I hope to pursue!”

“I had the opportunity to perform in a production of ‘Antigone’ this past fall. I grew up in a strong theatre community, so it was nice to incorporate that into my time here! I learned so much about performing heightened text and about myself as a performer.”

“I received the French Scholarship, and that has meant everything to me. Without it, I could not have attended Carthage or would have had to bend over backward to make it possible.”

“I live in the campus Starbucks. Not only can I eat, caffeinate, and study there, but I can also people-watch and socialize! So many features in just one location. The baristas are often fellow students and some of my favorite people. It’s just too good to miss.”

“The biggest surprise so far has been how many people I have grown to love. Don’t get me wrong, I am a people person, but my time at Carthage has shown me how many kindred spirits to mine are out there! When coming to college for the first time, it can feel like you are singular and alone; but I’ve learned that there are people all around me sharing my interests, beliefs, and humor.”

“Art history is a rich, complex field of study. It challenges your visual analysis, attention to detail, application of historical context, and research skills. It is interdisciplinary by nature, requiring you to have wide and multi-faceted knowledge of the world we live in. It can, however, be lonely as it is such a small program; my advice is to advocate for yourself! Speak to your professors and advisors, and tell them what you need.

“If you are considering a French major, do as much as you can to connect with your fellow students and your professors through the French Club!”

“I chose Carthage because I wanted a small, liberal arts campus in Wisconsin with art history as a major, which is a rare find! I also qualified for the French Scholarship, which has allowed me to afford to attend this school. I wanted to study both art history and further my French language skills, so this was my perfect fit.”