College of Arts & Sciences

Senior Portfolio

Before graduation, history and geography majors must submit a Senior Portfolio that includes their written work and learning assessments.

The portfolio must be submitted to the Department of History and Geography Office, Landrum 415, on or before the deadline date to be set by the department.

It is important that you follow these directions in regards to the appropriate format and necessary components.

Submission requirements

  • Your portfolio should be placed in a three ring binder. Dividers should be placed between each section and each part must be labeled;
  • Please submit copies of your papers, documents, essays, etc. because your portfolio will not be returned;
  • Remove any name or other personal identification information from your submitted items, except for your transcript;
  • All submitted items must be UNGRADED AND CLEAN copies that do not include either corrections made after the paper was graded or any other written comments;
  • Make sure all sections are labeled;
  • Please submit a disk or CD that contains copies of your items included in your portfolio.

Section I: Transcript

An official transcript from the Office of Registrar is required.

Section II: Early and Best Papers

Please include an example of your earliest paper. If possible, submit a paper from your first or second year as a history major – and not from HIS 385.

Please include an example of your best paper (not from HIS 385) that is at least 5 pages in length and contains footnotes and a bibliography.

Section III: Self Progress Report

Please submit a 1-2 page analysis of your performance as a student in the history program, especially noting the areas you believed you achieved a significant growth as a student, researcher and writer of history. Also discuss both your strengths and areas for improvement.

Section IV: Multicultural/Diversity Narrative

Write and submit an essay (between 500 and 700 words) that answers the following statement:

Describe how some of the history courses you have taken over the years, internships you have acquired, and various other activities you have participated in at Northern Kentucky University have contributed to your historical and contemporary understanding of diverse groups and cultures (i.e. race, ethnicity, class, and gender).

Section V: Reflective Narrative

Write and submit an essay (between 500 and 700 words) that discuss your experience as a history major. Be specific in your discussion and commentary on the strengths and areas that need to be improved within the history program. However, do not mention any specific faculty members.

Section VI: Career Plans and Goals

Write and submit a brief paragraph on your plans and goals after graduation.

Section VII: Senior Survey

Complete and submit the accompanied senior survey and place it in envelope. Please do not place your name or any identification notes on the survey itself or the envelope.


Questions or comments

If you any questions or comments, please contact Dr. Eric R. Jackson, Associate Professor and Assistant Chair, Northern Kentucky University, Department of History and Geography.