Careers
American Studies offers exemplary preparation for law school, public service, secondary education, advanced academic study, business, and journalism. Our graduates have pursued careers in these fields and more.
Alumni Spotlight
My American Studies major made me the woman I am today. The ability to evaluate and analyze all aspects of the American culture in the context of historical events has enabled me to be more culturally responsive in my current role as an Alternative High School Principal. Dr. Margaret Manchester was one professor that pushed me to think deeply and question everything. This lesson has served me well throughout my career. Honestly, I wish I could go back 20 years and take American Studies courses again!
Laura DiStefano ’04
Principle of Orchard View Alternative High School, NY
I chose to double major in History and American Studies after taking an introductory course to American Studies during my sophomore year at Providence College. Not only did American Studies couple well with my History degree, but it also provided me with the opportunity to major in a multidisciplinary subject area that opened the doors to other majors, such as English, Political Science, Black Studies, and Women Studies. American Studies gives students the opportunity to learn and practice analytical and reasoning skills not only in one subject area but amongst a wide variety of liberal arts majors that bring forth different perspectives on the study of the United States and the Americas. American Studies helped me to refine the analytical and reasoning skills that I had previously garnered through just one major, History. The refining of these skills helped me immensely when applying to law school, and so far, provides an advantage in navigating my first semester courses. Just as the professors in my current courses challenge us to look at a problem from all different perspectives, American Studies challenged me to look at an event, or even just an excerpt from a piece of literature, from a multidisciplinary perspective.
Annie Lucatuorto, ’20
Seton Hall University Law School
As an American Studies major at Providence College, I was able to explore all areas of the college and tap into all of my interests including early American History, social movements, marketing, family dynamics, culture, and leadership management. The program gave me the flexibility to double minor both within the business school and department of history, as well as intern within the city of Providence during my senior year. I graduated from PC with a holistic education, including writing, analytical, and comprehension skills. In my career today working in arts administration and business development, I am consistently looking at the ‘big picture’ and using my liberal arts background to problem solve, think creatively, communicate effectively, and to pivot when need be!
Katie Ferris ’13
Director, Children’s Division, American Ballet Theatre
President, Providence College Club of New York
I feel that this program allowed me to experience all that PC had to offer within my four short years at the college. I graduated from the program well-prepared for my future in law school and with an education that is truly invaluable.
Shannon Hyle ’12
New England School of Law Student
The American Studies curriculum taught me how to analyze my coursework from a variety of perspectives. Instead of looking at a problem in just one fashion, I was able to tackle assignments using several different viewpoints. Whether that be historical, sociological, or societal, I was able to develop a more well-rounded understanding of my work.
John Looney ’11
Suffolk University Law School
Dr. Cristina Rodriguez
American Studies Program Director
Faculty Profile
Ruane LL20
401.865.1719
crodri16@providence.edu
