Jacob Feinstein: Graduate Student
Name: Jacob Feinstein
Major: History
Minor: Professional Writing, Religious Studies
Current Position/Status: Graduate Student at Georgetown University
Year Graduated: 2024
What are you currently doing and is it related to your degree in History?
I am currently pursuing a Masters at Georgetown University. My most recent position was Legislative Intern for the California State Assembly, District 37-Santa Barbara County, from March - June 2025.
More recently, I have been writing articles on History, International Relations, and War, building upon my studies at UC Davis and Johns Hopkins. My first article, which directly built upon my undergraduate Thesis in History on the 1998-1999 Kosovo/Yugoslavia conflict, is in-press at a prominent military journal.
How did your degree in History shape and prepare your career path post-graduation?
My degree in History fostered crucial skills in research and writing, and importantly, focus during project management. Experience with and enthusiasm for these courses encouraged me to take on a Senior Honors Thesis in History, where I would study the 1998-9 Kosovo conflict, its origins, and international response. This undertaking confirmed without doubt my passion and commitment to the field of History and its role in shaping International Relations.
Are there any opportunities you found helpful or would suggest for undergraduates in our program?
I have found countless opportunities after graduation– some of which were only available to active students. I cannot emphasize strongly enough the importance of looking at specific government agencies for student internships, such as but not limited to the DoS or AmeriCorps, prestigious scholarship programs such as Fulbright or the Foreign Service Student Pathway, as well as local/state government internships. Going to events and applying to local internships or part-times is another ideal way to get LOCAL work which won’t take you far from Davis itself. Lastly, look into positions or fields you’re interested in (especially with the government) to see if you need to study for an entrance exam.