Ellerese Topacio
Class Year:
2020
Job Title:
Law Clerk & J.D. Candidate
Areas of Study:
History
Hometown:
Grayslake, IL
What made you decide to become a History major at Lake Forest College?
At my first meeting with the History Department in the summer of my first year, I was instantly persuaded that history was what I wanted to study. I connected with the faculty and students who were all so bright, kind, and thoughtful. The discipline contained so much variety and nuances; I knew that I would never get bored of learning about history unlike, let's say, if I majored in accounting where it's all seemingly too prosaic.
Is there a specific memory that sticks out to you from your time as a history student?
I'll never forget writing my senior thesis with Professor LeMahieu, which I truly consider to be the pinnacle of my undergrad studies. The development process was extremely rigorous, but it all paid off the moment I asserted my final point at my thesis defense to my advisors. I learned so much from writing my 80-page thesis. From swallowing constructive criticism to researching primary and secondary authorities to extract content that supported my argument the best. I applied all of the skills in my repertoire as a history student: close examination of the text, nuanced writing, and critical thinking.
What is something students considering majoring in History should know?
Majoring in history will open many doors for you because it's such an all-encompassing discipline. It teaches students how to become effective writers, thinkers, and investigators. Don't be quick to associate a history degree with a straight ticket to any one place because you'll be surprised to the many professional avenues it can expose you to.
Why is History relevant and important today?
I've always considered history to be the study of life. History identifies trends in society, culture, and almost any type of subject matter in order to explain why such trends exist. This examination matters so much because it keeps people well-informed about its past, present, and future. And a well-informed society is a robust, advancing society.
What are you up to now? In what ways did being a history major help you after graduation?
I'm currently a law student at DePaul University College of Law where I aspire to obtain my juris doctorate and become an advocate for people seeking to redress their grievances by way of the legal system. I'm interested in delving into the litigation aspect of constitutional law and civil rights.
I accredit my history degree for equipping me with the fundamental skills of an effective legal advocate: critical, nuanced thinking, structured writing, and using facts to support my arguments.