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EXCEL Scholars Carter Figueroa ’02 of Charleston, S.C. and Lauren Sheldon ’04 of Somerville, N.J. are collaborating on research for a book on the Battle of Vicksburg in the Civil War. Both are assisting Donald Miller, John Henry MacCracken Professor of History.
Figueroa, a chemistry major, and Sheldon, who is considering a major in English with a minor in French, are working on a number of research activities, from visiting manuscript collections to tracking down bibliographical citations and leads. As part of the project, the students will also assist Miller on a documentary film script about General Ulysses S. Grant.
According to Sheldon, a Trustee Scholar, the research has broadened her knowledge of a pivotal battle in the Civil War.
“Right now I’m researching the role of African-American soldiers and how they were used by both the northern and southern sides,” she says. “I’ve been finding pertinent information and creating summaries and outlines for professor Miller.”
Figueroa is also conducting primary source research for the project.
“I’ve been looking at a lot of Civil War diaries and other sources,” he says. “Pretty soon we’ll start organizing the material and creating outlines.”
Both students were intrigued to tackle the subject after having Miller as a professor. And while neither student is a history major, they are pleased to have the opportunity to do research in the discipline.
Says Figueroa, “Professor Miller got me interested in history. I realized I was interested in the humanities even though I was a chemistry major. I’m glad I’m getting such a well-rounded education here.”
Figueroa, who also completed an internship with Lou Reda Productions in Easton, a documentary film production company, is eager to work on the film script.
“I’ve always enjoyed documentaries and film, so working on the U.S. Grant script is something I look forward to,” he adds.
Sheldon also describes history as an outside interest that she is pleased to pursue through EXCEL.
“Professor Miller is just great to work with. He lets us work independently, which really makes you learn a lot. I’ve really enriched my research skills by working on this project,” she says.
Both students are pleased with their time at Lafayette.
Says Sheldon, “Lafayette has been great so far. There are so many opportunities and the professors are very open and helpful.”
Figueroa concurs: “It’s great to see things begin to take shape. I’ve definitely been enjoying my time here. I’ve had the chance to study abroad and do special projects like EXCEL.”
Sheldon is a member of Lafayette Christian Fellowship and plays intramural sports.
Lauren Sheldon ’04, an English major, assisted Donald L. Miller, John Henry MacCraken Professor of History, in collecting research and interviews for a future book on the Eighth Air Force.