Joanna Gonzalez (BA ‘24, MA ‘26), Thomas Donovan (MA ‘23), Margaret Phillips (BA ‘24, MA ‘26), Nathaniel Saavedra (BA ‘24), and Erin Herklotz (BA ‘23, MA ‘26) will continue their studies after completing their degrees with excellence in the CSUSB History Department. Donovan, Gonzalez, and Phillips have been accepted to regional doctoral programs to continue their studies in History, Herklotz will go on to study law, and Saavedra will move to Washington, DC to pursue museum studies.

About her decision to apply to PhD programs, Gonzalez noted, “I knew I had more to say on topics explored during the MA at CSUSB, that was the deciding factor… The encouraging faculty at CSUSB and my Fiance assured me not to worry and I hastily decided on, began the process, and submitted the PhD application in two months.” 

Joanna Gonzalez is headed to the University of California Riverside’s Department of History, after having worked closely with Drs. Michelle Lorimer and Michael Karp here. At UCR, she will be working with Drs. William Bauer and Rebecca Kugel among other faculty. She is most excited to delve further into more Native American History. “You will never truly know the answer unless you do it,” Gonzalez noted when asked about her advice to undergrads. “Everything else will work itself out.” And, she continued with a recommendation to be confident in pursuing your research choices, even when you might have moments of doubt. “Your topic/interest more than likely does not ‘suck’ as much as you think it does, so write about it.”

Thomas Donovan thanked the faculty at CSUSB, and noted that they “played a key role in developing my love of history and showing me the value a PhD in history can have for my personal and professional development. In the fall of 2025, Professor Murray helped me apply to a few PhD programs. With his assistance, and to my delight, I was admitted to the University of California Irvine.” Donovan will be working with Professor Ian Coller on French history, the French Revolution, and Francophone history with a particular focus on the history of the island of Mauritius. Donovan continued, “For advice for those who are interested in applying to PhD programs, I recommend finding a topic that you are personally passionate about, that connects with you strongly, that you can provide unique insight into, and that will explore historical avenues that have yet to be covered properly. New topics of research that you can illuminate in a unique manner will be attractive to many. I also recommend applying to schools that have faculty whose personal work aligns or connects with what you would like to do. You do not need to be a perfect applicant; however, you do need to find a manner to connect with a faculty member and find a way to get them to wish to work with you. I am incredibly grateful for all the assistance I have received from my professors and family, and I look forward to the fall with great joy."

Margaret Phillips is headed to Claremont Graduate University to continue her studies and noted, “I will be working towards a PhD in History with Matthew Bowman and JoAnna Poblete. I will be studying religion in the United States, especially where it has intersected with race and racism, and with a special interest in Mormonism.” Phillips will build on her studies in both the BA and MA programs in History at CSUSB, working with her lead advisor Dr. Michael Karp.

Nathaniel Saavedra is off to Washington DC and George Washington University's Museum, History, and Cultures program. Saavedra noted, “Currently, I am preparing for the transition to graduate study, including financing housing and work before starting the program. After being accepted to both the University of Pennsylvania and GWU, I carefully considered which program best aligns with my long-term career goals. GWU ultimately stood out as the program that fit my interest in pursuing a career in museum collections and cultural institutions.” He continued, “I have been awarded a $20,000 financial package, distributed over four semesters, which helped make the program a more accessible option. In addition, the program's location in Washington, D.C. was a significant factor in my choice. As home to some of the most exceptional museums and cultural institutions, it provides strong opportunities for professional development in the field. I look forward to the next chapters and to continuing my long-term academic and career goals.”

Of her plans to pursue a career in law, Erin Herklotz noted, “Going to law school is a way to turn my passion for history into a meaningful way to advocate for others. My studies, in areas like medical racism and reproductive justice, have shown me how deeply the law shapes people’s lives. That realization pushed me to want to create positive change in the world. Law has always interested me, but I used to question whether it was a path I could achieve. Developing a growth mindset changed that; this gave me the ability to push through doubt, overcome setbacks, and stay committed to my goals.” About her inspirations, Herklotz noted, “In many ways, I relate to Elle Woods from Legally Blonde. I have been underestimated at times throughout my educational path, but those experiences have only strengthened my determination. I owe much of this success to the incredible mentors, faculty, and my amazing cohort, whose support and belief in me helped shape my confidence and direction. Because of them, I see law not just as a career, but a way to advocate for others, challenge injustice, and make a meaningful impact. As Elle Woods said, ‘It is with passion, courage of conviction, and a strong sense of self that we take our next steps into the world,’ and I plan to do just that.”