Meet Morgan Schwarz, a senior history major whose lifelong passion for the past has shaped a rich and unexpected academic journey at Michigan State University. From discovering a love for archival work in MSU’s Special Collections to helping create a museum exhibit on the history of the Spartan Marching Band, she’s embraced every opportunity to learn and lead. In this spotlight, she talks about her future, the professors who inspired her, and the experiences that defined her time at MSU.
What inspired you to pursue a major in history?
I have always had a deep love for history for as long as I can remember. To be completely honest, I cannot think of a time when I was not interested in history. I initially wanted to become a history teacher, but after my experience as a student employee in the Stephen O. Murray and Keelung Hong Special Collections and the Media Lab in the library, I decided to become a librarian! There is something appealing about being able to help preserve history as a librarian.
What has been your most memorable academic experience so far?
I think my most memorable academic experience was when I was given the opportunity to participate in creating a museum exhibit in the MSU Museum about the history of the Spartan Marching Band!
Can you talk about your work with the MSU Library?
Initially, I just wanted an on-campus job, but after getting employed by Special Collections, everything changed. I fell in love with the library world. Working in the MSU Library quite literally changed the trajectory of my life!
Any history professors who have made a lasting impact on you?
Dr. Brockey and Dr. Segal have had a very positive and profound impact on me. They both have taught me how to look at historical objects through a different light and have taught classes on historic subjects that I would not have learned about otherwise.
What extracurriculars, clubs, networks, etc. are you involved in?
I wrapped up my last season with the Spartan Marching Band this year! I was a member for four years, where I served as the band librarian for two years, and a squad leader for one year (shoutout to Diva Squad!!) I was a member of the Spartan Brass for three years, where I served as a band librarian for two of those years. I am also a sister of Tau Beta Sigma, where I am in my second year of serving as Historian! I also studied abroad between my second and third years in Paris, London, and Brussels.
What do you plan to do after graduation?
My plan is to go straight into Library School. I am still deciding which school to go to, but my current options are Indiana, Wayne State, and Illinois. My dream is to become a librarian and preserve as much film as possible!
If you could travel to any historical moment or era, where would you go and why?
I would love to experience the roaring 20s! It was a time of great change and lots of happenings throughout history, and I want to see and experience all of them!
What advice would you give to incoming students who want to get the most out of their MSU experience?
Enjoy every moment! The days are long, but the years are short. It is also okay to take a deep breath every once in a while, and appreciate the squirrels on campus. It is also so important to get involved with something on campus! It really helps to downsize the university and make friends from different majors.