I am originally from Ellinwood, Kansas. I graduated with a B.A. in history in 2002 and a M.A. in history in 2004. I was a graduate teaching assistant in the history department from 2003 to 2004.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I am the Rare Books and Exhibits Librarian at the McGoogan Library of Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. I have always enjoyed history, especially American history and women’s history. I interned at the Ellis County Historical Society during graduate school. For about two years after I graduated, I worked full-time as the curator. The job at the historical society introduced me to public history, creating exhibits and outreach programs. At the McGoogan Library of Medicine, I have learned a great deal about the history of medicine and rare books. Creating exhibits and outreach programs are an amazing opportunity to share the unique history in our collections.
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
I chose to attend FHSU for several reasons. My parents and several aunts and uncles all attended FHSU. FHSU was a part of my childhood. I loved traveling to Hays. I have fond memories of visiting the Sternberg Museum when it was still on campus. Hays was the perfect distance away from home-not too far or too close. Campus was the perfect size for me. I came from a small town. I did not feel comfortable on a big campus. At FHSU, I was not a number, I was a student with a name. Everywhere from the dorms to the classrooms, I always felt like I received attention when I needed it.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
I enjoyed the camaraderie of the small classes. When you settled into classes within your major, you really got to know your classmates well. I loved being involved in Phi Alpha Theta, the history honor society and History Club. I had a lot of fun organizing and attending the Halloween presentations by Dr. Robert Leuhrs. I enjoyed History Club, the informal meetings at Applebee’s or different restaurants.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
When I started out as a freshman, I thought I had it all figured out. I knew what career I wanted. I was going to be a middle school or high school social studies teacher. After the first two years, I realized that I did not have it all figured out. I changed my mind. I dropped education and stayed with just a history major. Career counseling and encouragement from my professors helped me find confidence in my decision. Always consider the advice of someone with the experience, such as counselors or professors.
Tell us about someone at FHSU who has left a lasting impression:
I had a lot of professors in different departments at FHSU who had lasting impressions on my life, including Dr. Steven Trout in English. He encouraged me as a writer. As a history major, I had many professors in the history department who left a lasting impression, including Drs. Robert Rook, Raymond Wilson, Robert Leuhrs, Norman Caulfield, and J.D. Wilson. And last, but not least, Kim Perez and David Goodlett who are current FHSU history faculty. Without their encouragement and guidance in research, critical thinking, and writing, I would not be where I am now.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
I am always proud to tell people I am a graduate of FHSU.
Erin (Hammer) Torell ’02, ’04
