People of Central: Campbell Geary

Story and photos by: Brooke DuVall

Campbell Geary is a grad student currently working towards his masters in history with the hopes of working in museum collections.

“I’m really passionate about physical artifact collections and museum education,” he said. “I’m mostly interested in contemporary American history.” 

He is juggling working a full-time job along with pursuing his degree. Although time consuming, Geary says it is worth it to study his passion. 

“My hobbies and social life have taken a bit of a cut,” he said, “but it’s not bad because I’m passionate about what I’m studying. It doesn’t always feel like schoolwork because I get enjoyment out of doing it.”

Geary chose to attend CMU’s grad school after learning about the accelerated master’s program offered which saves both time and money. Students who stay at CMU are able to earn credits towards their masters while earning their bachelors degree.

“You can double count credits in your undergrad towards a master’s if you stay at CMU,” Geary explained, “So I ended up finishing my bachelor’s with 12 credits already done for a master’s.”

CMU offers other perks for grad students, such as tuition remission for graduate assistantships. Geary says finances were another factor to consider when applying for grad school. 

“Going into a bunch of debt for a master’s in history to work in museums, which is a field that you don’t make a ton of money in, was something I really had to think about,” he said. “So when I had the opportunity to stay here as a graduate assistant and get basically all my tuition paid for, I stayed.”

Geary went from working in a graduate assistantship position, to working full time at the volunteer center. He also had the opportunity to work at the museum on campus, giving him valuable experience to enter the workforce. 

“I feel like I’ve been very well prepared,” said Geary. “A lot of opportunities have been given to me here, and I’m really grateful for that.”

When asked what advice he would give undergrads considering grad school, he said to consider the decision thoughtfully but not to fear it.