Natalie Riddick ‘23
Major: History
Minor: International Relations
Next Step: Getty Marrow Internship at Skirball Cultural Center
Perhaps one of the biggest lessons that senior history major Natalie Riddick has learned throughout her time in the LMU Bellarmine College of Liberal Arts is that she is prepared for whatever the future holds.
“My liberal arts/Jesuit education has prepared me for a career in public service, no matter which role I ultimately end up in, by instilling in me the importance of interdisciplinary studies and social justice as a lens for critical thought,” said Riddick.
Riddick, who is from Vacaville, CA, has had a passion for history since high school, but it was at LMU where her passion met purpose. She delved into the major studying social, political, and economic issues in their historical context. Wanting to deepen her understanding of global interconnectedness, she decided to also add a minor in international relations during her junior year.
“I have received wonderful mentorship and support from the History Department faculty,” said Riddick. “It was especially an honor to work under Elizabeth Drummond as a Rains Research Assistant. I have learned so much from her that I will take with me after leaving LMU.”
Studying history and international relations has opened Riddick’s eyes to a multitude of career paths. Her interest in the intersection of social justice and policy led her to apply for two competitive public service fellowships. She was a finalist for the Gaither Junior Fellowship in January and is a current finalist for the California Senate Fellows Program.
Another potential career that aligns with her personal values and love for history is museum work. Specifically, she is interested in highlighting and uplifting the historically silenced stories of marginalized communities in American history. She is looking forward to dabbling in this work over the summer as a Getty Marrow intern at the Skirball Cultural Center.
In addition to excelling academically and being inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, Riddick was also very engaged in campus life and being a point of reference for her fellow students as a History Department TA and BCLA Peer Advisor.
Her advice to current students in both practical and valuable: “Check your email so you don’t miss academic and extracurricular opportunities. I also encourage you to pick up a minor that interests you, audition for a play, joins clubs and organizations, submit your work to writing contests. All of these interdisciplinary experiences will enrich your time in college and prepare you for whatever exciting steps will come next in your journey.”