Exploring History From Every Angle
Student Snapshot: Lily Kell ’28
Lily Kell ’28 is using Dickinson’s liberal-arts curriculum to explore her interests across history, philosophy and women’s, gender and sexuality studies. From researching the Carlisle Indian Industrial School in the college archives to studying abroad in Bologna, Italy, Lily has found opportunities to connect her academic interests with her local community, global experiences and love of music.
Hometown:
Shippensburg, Pa.
High school:
Shippensburg Area Senior High School.
Major:
History, with minors in philosophy and women’s, gender & sexuality studies.
Clubs and organizations:
WDCV, Liberty Cap Society, History Majors Committee, Trendsetters and Arts Collective.
On my Dickinson experience:
The best thing about my Dickinson experience so far has been discovering my academic interests through the liberal arts model. I never thought I would have two minors alongside my major, but by taking many classes in different disciplines, I have been able to explore my fields fully.
Best thing about my major:
The best thing about being a history major is being able to explore so many different fields. To study history, you must understand a little bit of everything—science, economics, politics, art and literature—to fully appreciate events and themes.
On choosing Dickinson:
I chose Dickinson because of how welcoming and accommodating everyone was when I toured. During my first visit, I was able to meet so many different people, and everyone I talked to, from professors to students to financial aid, seemed excited and willing to answer my questions and tell me about their experiences. I knew then that I would fit right in!
Favorite professor:
My favorite professor is Professor Karl Qualls in the History Department. I am so lucky to have a mentor like Professor Qualls; not only is he an incredible professor who encourages his students to become better academics, but he also encourages his students to become more active community members outside of the classroom. Professor Qualls helped me realize that history isn’t just in a book we read—we can see its effects everywhere we go, and it is our responsibility to acknowledge that impact.
On studying abroad:
I am currently abroad in Bologna, Italy. While I have only been here a few weeks, it has been wonderful exploring the city and immersing myself in the culture. So far, the highlight has been our program trip to Genova and Camogli; it felt like paradise with the beautiful blue waters and pebble beaches.
About my internship:
I interned with a professor at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center, where I researched the mistreatment of German POWs during both World Wars using primary sources from the center’s archives. I then scanned and summarized my findings for the professor. I gained a lot of confidence through the experience, particularly because much of the work was independent, and I learned how to overcome challenges while gaining experience in the field of history.
About my research:
During my sophomore year and this summer, I conducted research through the college archives about the Carlisle Indian Industrial School, with a primary focus on the health conditions at the school. It was incredible to learn about the resilience of the students, particularly their efforts to preserve their culture despite their circumstances. As someone who grew up so close to Carlisle and has many family members from the area, it was especially meaningful to learn more about local history.
Proudest accomplishment so far:
My proudest accomplishment has been everything I’ve done with WDCV. Last year, I was the events coordinator, and every event we put on was so fulfilling. I love watching the Carlisle community and Dickinson students come together to celebrate each other and music. This year, I am the assistant station manager, and I can’t wait to get back to work when I return from Bologna.
What I’ve learned as a first-generation student:
If I could give advice, I would tell first-generation students to embrace their first-gen status and get to know other first-gen students. It can feel lonely as a first-gen student, but you worked so hard to get where you are, your families are incredibly proud of you, and you should be proud of yourself, too!
Honors/scholarships/awards:
Dickinson-Cumberland County Scholarship.
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Published October 9, 2026