My name is Jen Jablonsky and I am currently completing my Master of Arts in American History with a concentration in Public History at American University. This blog was started as a part of a requirement for my Digital History class that explored the rapidly changing digital world and its implication on the study, methodology, and consumption of history. Since the completion of the course, I expanded this blog to include other topics in public history as well as incorporate my public history projects to create my academic portfolio
I received my Bachelor of Arts in American History and American Studies from Stonehill College in Easton, Massachusetts. During my undergraduate career, I sought an outlet for my passion for history through a number of internships including working as an archivist in the Stonehill College Archives and a historic preservationist at the New Bedford Whaling National Historic Site. However, it was my two summers as a Park Guide at Sagamore Hill National Historic Historic Site which confirmed my desire to pursue a career in public history.
At American University I performed a year long practicum at Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial where I interned as a front line interpreter providing visitors with information about Robert E. Lee, his family, and the cemetery. During the spring semester, along with Samantha Howell, I completed a series of interpretive wayside signs which will be placed throughout Arlington National Cemetery. I also interned at Heritage Education Services, a division of the National Park Service, where I assisted with the Teaching with Historic Places Lesson Plans and Discover Our Shared Heritage Travel Itineraries. Currently, I am employed as a Seasonal Park Guide at Arlington House, The Robert E. Lee Memorial and as a researcher for the Education Department at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.