Seton Hall classical studies majors shared what inspired them to choose their major and what it’s like in their select field of study. Although, some students are unaware of what the classical studies department entails.
“I had no idea it existed and I don’t know much about it at all,” Amanda Rivera, a freshman psychology major, said. “I think the major is a study of the broad sense of the early and classic humanities, such as language, literature, art and history.”
While delving into the ancient civilizations of Rome and Greece, the classical studies department has worked to create a program that aims to enrich its students’ abilities across the board.
From literature and history to modern medicine and archeology, majors of all types can find their roots in classical studies.
Dr. Michael Mascio, director of undergraduate studies, lectures in classical studies and said that he feels that the program is unique because of the way it embraces the entirety of the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations.
Dr. Mascio, who has been part of the program’s faculty for seven years, said that another aspect that adds to the specialty of the program is its ability to “converge from, one side, a macroscopic survey level and, on the other, a microscopic individual text level.”
With such a strong focus on ancient language, a degree in classical studies has opened the doors for graduates to a wide range of careers, Mascio said.
While a large number of the students pursue occupations in history and language education, it’s also common for graduates to put their studies towards a law degree as well.
“Classical studies is the top-rated undergraduate major by law schools, because of its intensive focus on language and analytical skills,” Mascio said.
Brian Pulverenti, a senior classical studies major, is working towards a career using Greek and Latin linguistics. Pulverenti said that there was no question as to whether or not his major was the right path for his future.
“I knew I wanted to be a classics major since I took Latin in my freshman year of high school,” Pulverenti said. “I was fascinated by the language. In fact, a main reason why I chose Seton Hall was because of the strength of our classics program here.”
With the program’s minimum of 18 language credits required in either Greek or Latin, Pulverenti has soared past it – completing 24 credits in each language separately. Throughout his time at Seton Hall, Pulverenti said he has used his studies and applied it to opportunities around campus.
One of these opportunities has been a tutor in residence position he’s now held for two years. In this role, he said he has been able to assist other students with their writing while practicing his own skills.
With plans to further his study in the classics in graduate school, Pulverenti said he shows no signs of slowing down. “Although I honestly cannot pinpoint a specific plan for my future,” he said, “I know that Greek and Latin will get me there.”
Eilish Montgomery can be reached at eilish.montgomery@student.shu.edu.
