Alumni Spotlight: Tom Foley

The first graduate in our ongoing series "The Real World: Villanova History" is Tom Foley. Tom, a 2013 graduate, is currently at Georgetown University pursuing his doctorate in history.

Tell us a little about your academic background and interests. 

[Note: Tom failed to mention that he did his undergraduate work at Notre Dame. As a fellow Domer I think it is my obligation to point that out.] I graduated from the M.A. program in history at Villanova in 2013.  Prior to starting the program in 2011, I worked in a legislative research office within state government.  While at Villanova, I had the good fortune of working on the Emilie Davis Diaries project led by Dr. Giesberg.  It is difficult to overstate the value of that experience, which continues to inspire my historical interests.

What are you up to now?

I am a first-year doctoral student at Georgetown University and am studying 19th century United States history with a focus on the intersection of gender and politics in the Civil War era.  I am also interested in the history of energy and the environment, digital public history, and the relationship between history and literature.  

How did your experiences at Villanova prepare you for a PhD program?

The rigorous coursework and high standard to which faculty hold students challenged me and pulled me from familiar themes.  The passion for history among students and faculty was always palpable, and keeping that fire stoked and well-fueled is essential in all graduate studies.

  

What advice do you have for current Masters students also considering pursuing a PhD?

If you are considering a PhD program in any field, consider developing your language skills.  Most PhD programs require an advanced level of competency.  For example, at Georgetown, all students must pass one language exam and all those in non-U.S. fields must pass at least one additional language that pertains to their research.  Many excellent opportunities exist at Villanova and throughout the Philadelphia area to build your language skills.

Additionally, contact faculty members and current graduate students at PhD programs that interest you.  Talk to your Villanova professors, as they can often provide a valuable introduction to a former colleague, classmate, or student.  It is vital not only to obtain a good understanding of what the program offers, how it perceives itself, and how it survives and thrives within the university community.  Email and then visit the programs and people you are drawn to, if practicable.  The worst that can happen is your email (and follow-up email) goes unanswered in which case you have still learned something valuable about that program. 

Finally, edit, edit, ask others to read and review, and edit all essays, applications, and even emails you send to potential programs.  In other words, continue to practice being good scholars!

Special thanks to Tom Foley for taking the time to answer a few questions and provide advice to students following in his footsteps. 

Have more questions for Tom? Contact him here.

Are you or do you know a Villanova graduate willing to offer advice to fellow Masters students? Please contact us, and we would love to be in touch.