firelfy754

Hi everyone,

I'm currently a senior history major at a state school. I'm looking to get thoughts on whether publications as an undergrad will significantly improve my applications at top tier schools (Ivy league etc). One paper I wrote has been accepted for publication in a book (one chapter in an anthology). I'm co-author on another project that will end up as either a book or series of articles. Both of these have been (or will be) presented at conferences as well.

I know the name of the game in history PhD programs is finding a dept with strengths that match my interests. The schools on my list right now are all strong in my field of interest. There are depts at a few Ivy league schools that would also be a good fit for me. I had not even considered applying given how intense competition is. A professor of mine, however, suggested that I reconsider this given that I'm published in my field. He seemed to feel this would give my application an extra edge. I know publications are important but I didn't think it would make that much of a difference.

I know admissions are a crap shoot but would the application fee be worth it in my case at Ivy League programs?

Thanks!

Student35

You need to throw out this notion of Ivy league when it comes to graduate school. Ivy history depts aren't necessarily the "best" nor the most competitive. The individual departments and programs earn their reputations aside from which college or university they happen to be housed in. Further true for the fields/specialties within these individual departments.

The history departments at Michigan, Chicago, Stanford, Berkeley, etc. may be just as competitive/prestigious as any of the Ivies. And the deptartment prestige is only as important as the strength of the professors in your area of study: US, modern Europe, China, etc.

Short answer: Undergrad publications aren't expected or required for grad admissions, but they will certainly give you a competitive advantage over comparable applicants without.

stringkeymom

Absolutely apply to any Ivy League history department where you can pursue the direction of research you have chosen. Early publication (and your writing syle here) show considerable promise and it is definitely worth trying. I'm writing from my perspective as a retired University Professor: do your best to be accepted at the best history departments that you can. History is an extremely competitive field, so, if you can, obtain your doctorate with leading faculty, a strong mentor, the best research library and strong departmental support for Ph.D. candidates with opportunities to train by teaching outstanding undergraduate students. Wishing you every success. (And do keep on publishing! You're off to a great start.)