Hello, my name is Grace Grove and I am a recent graduate from the University of Central Arkansas. This past spring, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History and English, receiving departmental Honors for my English degree. In addition, I earned a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies from the Norbert O. Schedler Honors College. In both English and History, I found an interest in 19th century African American studies with specific focuses in textual studies and book histories. In the fall, I will be pursuing a dual master’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin. The M.S.I.S./M.A. in Information Studies and English program will allow me to continue an interdisciplinary approach to research and African American Studies.

While at the University of Central Arkansas, I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Lori Leavell as I generated a thesis about Frederick Douglass’s novella, The Heroic Slave, and how it demonstrates his developing political thoughts and ideas about collective, physical resistance to slavery. Though I had never heard of The Library Company, when Dr. Leavell told me about their rich archives and the Mellon Scholars Program, I was eager to apply. This spring, I was honored that The Library Company invited me to remotely participate in the Mellon Scholar Workshop. The week-long program introduced me to a brilliant cohort of scholars who expressed interests in biographies, medicine, art, and food culture as avenues of understanding African/African American history.

In one week, the Library Company guided me through numerous professional development workshops and seminars. It was a pleasure to connect with fellow researchers and learn from their experiences and insights. Throughout the week we learned how to create successful PhD and grant applications, network with other scholars, and transform archival research into a meaningful career. Ultimately, The Library Company provided me with an invaluable experience that aided in my development as a professional in academia.