What is your topic and what made you choose it?
My topic examines Ireland during World War 2, which announced neutrality at the start of the war. I also examine Ireland’s relationship with Germany at this critical time for Europe and the world. Ireland fought for the British during the First World War but was trying to develop as an independent young state as Hitler rose to power across Germany. I chose this topic as Irish History has always fascinated me, but sadly, it was never an option here at Trinity. So, using the freedom a history thesis gave me, I could learn more about a topic that has interested me. Furthermore, this topic was personal to me, as I have family over in Ireland, and through taking Professor Kassow’s World War II class here at Trinity, I began to wonder what Ireland was doing as the war was going on. Through my research, I have been able to learn more about how Ireland dealt with the War and its relationship with Germany.
Have you been able to travel for your research and if so where have you gone and how was the experience
Yes! Through the Colin A. Leroy Research Fund I was able to travel to Ireland for 16 days over this past summer, exploring various archives in Dublin and Cork. Having the chance to view sources that are not available online was vital and has expanded my ability to write effectively. Additionally, during my time in the Emerald Isle, I stayed with my family, which was an experience I will never forget! Being able to stay with family made the trip so much easier, and they welcomed me with open arms. We also took a weekend trip out to Galway, where I saw where my great-great-great grandmother was born! The trip was one of the best experiences I have had, and I am thankful the History Department, through the Leroy Fund, was able to give me the opportunity.
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
The biggest challenge I have faced is being able to manage all the sources and articles I have come across and being able to come up with a system to organize them all. With a big project, it is very easy to get lost in tons of information that have little to no relevance to my topic. However, using skills I have developed through my time as being an historian, it became easier with time to analyze sources and if they were relevant to the research I am doing. I have also used online tools like Scrivner and Google Drive to organize all my chapters and sources.
What advice would you give to someone currently considering writing a history thesis paper?
I would say go for it! However, it is so important to pick a topic you care deeply about, as you will be working with the topic for almost a year. Having a personal connection with Ireland has kept me motivated and excited to research and write about a lesser-known aspect of the nation’s history. Furthermore, I emphasize doing as much background work as you can to help you as you start writing. I remember a year ago listening to a few podcasts on Ireland during World War II, which helped me gain a basic understanding of the events before I turned to the archives and academic work. Having things like a timeline of events and a list of the important people of the topic you want to study will go a long way as you start. Also, do not be afraid to reach out to professors to gain their insight on the topic! They all want to help as much as they can and want you to succeed!
