The Making of a Historian: From Undergraduate Research to Ph.D. Life

Join Adelphi alumna Kavita Gawrinauth for a candid look at her path from undergraduate research at Adelphi University to doctoral study in History at New York University. She will discuss how coursework, faculty mentorship, research opportunities, conference presentations, and early publications helped her build confidence as a historian and prepare for graduate study.

The talk will also serve as a practical guide to the graduate-school application process — including how to identify the right programs and faculty mentors, develop a research statement, secure strong letters of recommendation, and navigate doctoral funding. Gawrinauth will reflect on the transition into Ph.D. life, the demands of graduate coursework, the role of publishing and fieldwork, and the challenge of balancing research, teaching, employment, and professional development.

Drawing on her current research into Indo-Guyanese migration, religion, memory, and community formation, she will illustrate how a personal and intellectual interest can grow into a full scholarly project. Undergraduate students will come away with a clearer sense of the paths available after college and concrete steps they can take now to prepare for graduate study, research, and careers in the humanities.

For any questions please contact the SPARK Center at spark@adelphi.edu.