Grace Reep
Grace Reep came to VCSU after finding her calling in History Education. After transferring from a two-year institution, Reep shares how VCSU prepared her for life post-graduation.
Hometown: Dawson, Minn.
Graduation Year: 2025
Major: History Education; Political Science Cognate
What inspired you to pursue a degree in History Education?
During the two years of getting my generals completed, I found I truly had the most enjoyment in my history classes. I began to see learning about history as the most important thing a person could do, and I really couldn’t see myself pursuing any other field. The education decision came from having a passion for helping curate safe spaces, wanting to encourage life-long learning, and loving the fast-paced and always-changing classroom environment.
Can you share what led you to start at a two-year college before transferring to a four-year institution?
I initially went to a two-year campus fresh out of high school with zero idea what I wanted to do post-grad. Seeing as I wasn’t sure how I wanted to continue my education, I knew getting my generals completed and finding direction from there would be the correct path. I also was familiar with the campus of the two-year I went to first as I had family in the area, I think that slight familiarity made me feel a lot more comfortable than just the jump straight into a four-year.
What were you involved in on campus?
I was involved in as much as possible on campus! I served as the Secretary and then was elected President for the Student Senate, during this role I also represented VCSU at the North Dakota Student Association in multiple roles. I also was honored to serve as the Vice President for VCSU’s History Club. I was the Apartment Assistant my last full year through Residence Life, I also worked at the Allen Memorial Library both of my years on campus. I participated in other clubs, organizations, and committees such as Social Justice Council, Phi Alpha Theta, and Curriculum Committee!
The entire Social Science department at VCSU became my biggest supporters and the reason I wanted to continue more than anything. Being able to stop into any office with an open door and chat about absolutely anything going on, worldwide or personal, really helped me feel so welcome and encouraged. As for a particular project, I think back to my capstone paper and presentation that was completed in conjunction with my World Wars class. I learned so much about research and was given access to decades worth of historical archives at the Barnes County Museum, I was even put in contact with a gentleman who had lived the experience of the topic which I was researching. The entire project was so rewarding, and being able to present my work at the Dakota History Conference was so incredible. I will forever be thankful to those who mentored me through the process and helped me become a better researcher and writer.
Can you share a memorable moment from your time as a Viking? 
It’s so difficult to pick just one memory, but I really look fondly back on every event I was able to take part in that was held at the President’s House on campus. Student Senate held an annual Christmas party that was full of food, friends, and silly games. Res Life also had a yearly party in the house, there was even a spooky escape room set up in the attic that caused me to genuinely scream, that was so fun! The Phi Alpha Theta ceremony held in the house was also an absolute joy to attend. One more important thing I loved helping out with yearly was the pancake feed hosted at the Eagles Club, the Social Science department always helped out with that, and we had such a good time both years I was there!
What are you doing now? How did your time at VCSU prepare you for life post-grad?
I am currently preparing to move out to the area around Cody, Wyoming. I plan to live there with my sisters and find a job substitute teaching until a full-time position opens in the surrounding school district. VCSU gave me the life skills I need to be confident that wherever I go, I will be able to find a path towards success.
How did your support system (advisors, faculty, family, friends) help you along the way?
I truly had the biggest support system at VCSU, and I am so grateful for it. Being as involved as I was helped me become familiar with every person on campus, leading to having multiple different support systems throughout all areas of my campus life. My professors especially supported me in more ways than imaginable; they were always willing to listen to my concerns and adjust anything as needed with my busy schedule. Shout out Social Science department again, any professor in the department reading this knows I loved popping in and chatting and I truly can’t say thank you enough for always encouraging open communication.
What advice do you have for students wanting to major in History or History Education?
I say to go for it! History can be a daunting program, but I promise that it is so much more than learning names and dates. History teaches you why everything connects, how we learn about the past, and how to become critical of all sources of information. I think it’s super important to be willing to speak up in class, even if you might be wrong – there’s for sure a teaching moment held within your answer. Always get to know your professors and don’t be scared to ask questions, seriously. And finally, be prepared to pick between a Political Science, Economics, or Geography cognate for the program – Political Science is where the cool kids go, if you ask me!
