Get Career-Ready with: Andrew Bensch '23, History and Political Science Major Student Profile

Meet Andrew Bensch '23

Majors/Programs

History, Political Science

Minor

Public Administration

Hometown

Pittsburgh, Pa.

High School

North Hills High School

Dream Job

Archivist for a museum

Why did you choose Point Park University?

Initially, I chose Point Park due to its broadcasting program, as well as the affordability and proximity to my home. Point Park made the most financial sense because it was less expensive than other schools, and I could easily commute to campus. Though I ended up switching my major to history and political science to better align with my career interests, I'm glad I chose Point Park.   

What do you like about Point Park's history and political science programs?

My professors. Throughout my time at Point Park, I have had some truly incredible history and political science professors who are incredibly passionate and knowledgeable about what they teach, which makes their classes all the more engaging.

Tell us about some of your favorite faculty members and courses.

Ed Meena, M.Ed., M.A., is one of my favorite professors. I’ve been fortunate to have him almost every year for class, and each class has been fantastic. I was especially fascinated by his courses on the history of the 1960s and Adolf Hitler and Nazism. Jehnie Burns, Ph.D., is another one of my favorite professors. Her knowledge of French history and culture is deep, and it shows in her classes. I’ve enjoyed classes taught by Dora Ion, Ph.D., in particular Theories of Justice and International Law, as I gained a great perspective on world affairs. Robert Skertich’s online public administration classes are always super interesting to me, especially since I work in local government. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention Professor Robert Ross, Ph.D., and Josh Wolf, whose classes I’ve greatly enjoyed, too. 

@pointparku Andrew Bensch ‘23 shares a glimpse into a day in the life of a #PointParkUniversity history + political science major! Check out the full story at pointpark.edu #GRWM #GetReadyWithMe #PointParkU #historymajor #politicalsciencemajor #collegelife #commuterlife ♬ smiles & sunsets - ultmt.

Describe the part-time job you have with West View Borough and how it combines your history and political science interests.

I’ve been working for West View Borough for four years as an administrative assistant and archivist. When I was first hired, I digitized their massive collection of borough council meeting minutes to make them accessible and searchable for any resident. Over time, I was given more materials to digitize, such as miscellaneous historical documents, photos, books and more. One of my favorite projects was digitizing a complete collection of yearbooks from a local high school, covering 1939 to 1958.

How is Point Park preparing you for career success?

Point Park is preparing me for career success because the classes I am taking are relevant to what I want to pursue. I am excited for next semester because I will be taking two classes about archiving. I often find that what I learn in class, I can immediately apply to my archival work for West View Borough, and vice versa.

What do you like about going to school in Downtown Pittsburgh?

I like going to school downtown because although I’ve lived in the suburbs of Pittsburgh my whole life, I didn’t know the actual city that well. Over the past few years, I’ve really come to appreciate what downtown has to offer, and I feel comfortable walking and driving throughout the city. 

Why would you recommend Point Park to a prospective student?

Point Park University is affordable and a solid option if you already live in the Pittsburgh area and want to commute. The staff and faculty are excellent. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here, and I believe that many more students after me will, too.

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