Preparing for the Thesis

Posted February 23, 2026 by Emmy Mahoney

As a graduate student in the Library and Information Sciences and History dual degree program, I am required to write a history thesis in order to graduate. Over the course of my two years in this program, I have spent a lot of time considering and preparing for this thesis. Now that I am really getting into it, I thought I would share some of the advice that I have received. 

The main recommendation that has been given to me is that your thesis should be on a topic that you are already familiar with. More specifically, it is recommended to expand on an idea that you have already written about in one of your history classes. For newer students in the program, this means being thoughtful about the research topics that you chose in each of your classes. For students who are gearing up to write their thesis proposal, this means considering your past projects.  

Another important piece of advice that I have received is to form positive relationships with your professors. In order to write your thesis, you are required to have one of the professors as an advisor. Having these relationships will be more advantageous for working with your advisor to complete your thesis. Also, the professors are really cool people, who are just as excited about learning as we are, so you should get to know them in general. 

The process of writing a thesis can seem overwhelming. The earlier you start preparing for it, the better. That being said, as graduate students it is important to remember that we are not only qualified to complete this project, and supported by our professors and peers, but excited to delve into a complex topic and contribute to the field of history!