Rachel Lynne Wall

Rachel's History Making Moments

What are your central passion(s), and how do you plan to pursue them after graduation? How have your experiences at Flagler shaped these passions?

My passion is women’s history, particularly in the late nineteenth and twentieth century United States. After graduation, I will begin a PhD program at Florida State University, where I plan to continue developing my undergraduate research on the Daughters of the American Revolution. My time at Flagler has been central to that path. The faculty supported me throughout the graduate application process and helped me see myself as a historian, while the curriculum pushed me to think more critically about my work. I’ve genuinely enjoyed my time here, and it has shaped both my research and more importantly my confidence..

Who or what inspired your passion in this area?

Meeting and working with Dr. Michael Butler has been one of the most formative experiences of my academic career. Reading his feedback on a paper I had written, where he stated, “cultural history is your calling,” was one of the most validating moments of my life, and for the first time I felt totally seen for who and what I want to be. His work in the community and in the field has inspired me to push for and pursue my dreams. The work we do as scholars makes an impact, and Dr. Butler embodies what it means to be a contributor to the field.

Can you share a memorable story from your time at Flagler that always makes you smile? What made this moment special for you? 

I’ve had several moments where I’ve felt supported by faculty. My professors have been with me through every step of this journey. One moment I look back on with a lot of gratitude is my first day at Flagler, when I met Dr. John Young. He has been a huge supporter of mine, both professionally and personally. As a nontraditional student and mother of six, that support meant so much. I remember approaching him after our first class, terrified of the syllabus, and he said, “I’m here to help you. Whatever you need. You can do this,” and that encouragement gave me the confidence to put one foot in front of the other and learn the skills of the discipline.

Which academic resources, experiences, or mentors at Flagler were most valuable to you, and how did they contribute to your success?

The Flagler history department is full of brilliant minds and big hearts. Each faculty member has played a role in mentoring me through my time here and preparing me for what comes next. Many hours were spent together in office hours, along with the time they dedicated to writing recommendation letters, helping polish my writing sample and teaching me how to grow as a historian and educator. 

Outside of the department, Dr. Bracewell, Dr. Van Zwoll, and Dr. Johnson have encouraged me to think more broadly and take an interdisciplinary approach to my scholarship and training. The knowledge shared by the Flagler faculty, both in the classroom and beyond it, is something I will carry with me. Watching these professionals work in their fields and practice what they teach has been one of the most valuable forms of mentorship. I feel prepared for my next chapter, and I’m incredibly grateful for the network and foundation I’ve built here.

What advice or lesson would you give to your freshman year self about the college experience?

Keep going. There is so much support here, and the hard work will pay off. Take every opportunity including studying abroad! Where there is a will there is a way and that summer trip with Dr. Johnson in Germany will change your life!

In the Flagler spirit, how do you hope to make history after graduation? 

I plan to make history by researching and writing it! I cannot wait to start my PhD program next fall, and I’m excited to begin this next chapter at Florida State.