Christina Siobhan Wells

Class of 2008
Email: cwells@fas.harvadrd.edu

What was your favorite course that you took in the AAAS Department?

My favorite AAAS course thus far has been “Women and Religious Expression,” a conference course taught by the wonderful Marla Frederick. A conference course meets once a week and has a small number of students who directly interact with the professor without the help of a teaching fellow.  I was really drawn to the cross section of race and gender studies that this class offered, which you can find in a lot of AAAS classes. Taking the class was an awesome experience. I learned so much from the other people in my class and became friends with my professor outside of the classroom. I really recommend conferences courses in this department if you want to explore a specific area of study, change your academic routine of lecture/section, or if you want to meet some amazing students and faculty!

What is the most exciting or interesting thing about African and African American Studies?

I think the most exciting thing about African American studies is its infancy as a discipline. I was reading an article in The New York Times that discussed the history and future of African American studies in this country. The article explained how many influential people within and outside of academia do not consider the formal study of African American history and culture, which has only been around for about 40 years.  No one knew it was coming when it burst onto campuses in the 1960s following intense student protests. It was inspired by passion and is driven by interest, intellectualism, and necessity. As a discipline, it will redefine itself again and again. That is what makes it dynamic.

Is there anything about African and African American Studies that you think is unique?

I think the AAAS Department is unique in many ways. It boasts world-famous faculty members who are so accomplished yet approachable and friendly. I know that sounds like a brochure quote but it's so true. I’ll walk through the Department looking into the display cases full of books written by the guy standing by the copy machine.  AAAS takes care of everyone who wanders through their doors no matter how much or how little experience you have, you might just find a home at AAAS.

When and why did you decide to become a concentrator in African and African American Studies/Afro-American Studies?

 I applied to Harvard College because of this department! My junior year I called all the time. Senior year, after I got in early, I emailed all the time. Basically, I was so excited about their courses. So I knew I would be a concentrator from the very beginning. It’s simply the best African and African American studies department in the country so why not go for the best?

What do you plan to do after graduation?

Graduation is some time away for me, but I plan to work for a few years and then continue on to graduate school pursuing a degree in a field of African American studies.