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Exploring the Past, Building the Future: My Journey as a History Student at UPES

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Exploring the Past, Building the Future: My Journey as a History Student at UPES
 

Studying History at UPES is more than learning about the past it's about developing critical thinking, research skills, and a deeper understanding of the world through immersive academic and experiential learning.

The School of Liberal Studies and Humanities (SOLSH) at UPES offers a dynamic learning environment that blends academic excellence with holistic development. Over the past two years as a History student, I have experienced a journey that has gone far beyond lectures and examinations. From engaging classroom discussions to field visits, research projects, and student-led initiatives, UPES has provided me with opportunities to grow both academically and personally.

 

Building a Strong Academic Foundation

The academic journey at SOLSH begins with foundation courses and boot camps that equip students with essential academic and life skills. These experiences laid the groundwork for my undergraduate journey, while the second year introduced more research-oriented and analytical coursework that encouraged me to think critically about the past and its relevance to the present.

Learning from Inspiring Faculty

One of the greatest strengths of the History programme is its faculty. Every professor brings expertise, enthusiasm, and a genuine commitment to student learning. Their guidance extends beyond classroom teaching, encouraging us to ask questions, challenge historical narratives, and develop our own perspectives.

Through detailed feedback on assignments and research papers, they have played a significant role in helping me improve my academic writing, citation practices, and ability to work with primary sources and scholarly literature.

Interactive Learning Beyond the Classroom

Learning in History classes is highly interactive. Debates, presentations, response papers, and research projects form an integral part of the curriculum, ensuring that students actively engage with historical sources rather than simply memorizing facts.

One of the most memorable classroom experiences for me was a debate on the Manu Smriti, where we explored diverse interpretations of the text and discussed its historical significance through evidence-based arguments. Activities like these demonstrate how History encourages critical thinking and meaningful dialogue.

Research that Builds Confidence

Research has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. Across different courses, I have worked on several research papers that strengthened my ability to read primary sources, engage with academic articles, and present well-supported arguments.

While I continue to refine these skills, I am far more confident as a researcher today than I was in my first year, thanks to the continuous encouragement and mentorship of the professors.

Experiential Learning Through Field Visits

Experiential learning has further enriched my understanding of History. During my first year, a visit to George Everest House in Mussoorie introduced us to the history of cartography and the legacy of Sir George Everest.

More recently, a field visit to Guru Ram Rai Darbar Sahib in Dehradun offered fascinating insights into the complex relationship between the Mughal Empire under Aurangzeb and Sikh traditions through the story of Guru Ram Rai. These experiences demonstrated how historical sites can bring classroom learning to life in ways that books alone cannot.

Beyond Academics

SOLSH provides numerous opportunities for students to engage with the wider university community. I have enjoyed participating in Swapaksha, the student-led History and Political Science club, which promotes discussion and intellectual exchange through various academic events.

Activities such as Uttarakhand Statehood Day celebrations, our History stall during Kalrav, student-organized movie screenings of historically significant films, and guest lectures by renowned scholars offered creative ways to engage with history beyond the classroom while connecting it with anthropology, literature, and the wider humanities.

Looking Back, Looking Ahead

Looking back on my journey so far, I realize that studying History at UPES has transformed the way I think, research, and engage with the world around me. More than learning about the past, I have learned to question, analyze, and appreciate the complexities of different historical narratives.

The supportive faculty, interactive learning environment, and numerous opportunities for academic and personal growth have made these two years incredibly rewarding.

For me, UPES has been much more than a place to earn a degree. It has been a community that nurtures curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and inspires students to explore the past while preparing for the future. As I continue my academic journey, I look forward to building on these experiences and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.

Pritha Agarwal
Pritha Agarwal

Pritha Agarwal is a third-year B.A. (Hons.) History student at UPES and serves as the Class Representative (CR) for the School of Liberal Studies and Humanities. She has interned with Salam Baalak Trust and Urban Dehat (Delhi 360) and actively contributes to campus initiatives as a School for Life (SFL) Ambassador and Student Lead for Project Speak. Her interests lie in Ancient Indian History, Archaeology, and Urban History, and she is passionate about making history engaging and relevant for contemporary audiences.

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