Project Mentor
Dr. Mars Plater
Department: History
Research Project Overview:
I am writing a book about green spaces in New York City during the 1800s. I am learning about how parks and private commercial green spaces (called “pleasure gardens,” “beer gardens,” and “excursion groves”) were where working-class New Yorkers fought against authorities and elites in order to spend time outdoors in the ways they wanted to, while fighting amongst themselves over issues of racism, sexism, and nativism. A forgotten strand of environmental activism grew in these complicated and dramatic green spaces, as immigrant New Yorkers joined together to protect parks from invading infrastructure projects!
Role of a SHARE Summer Apprentice:
During the first part of the summer, I would ask a SHARE apprentice to read the chapters of the book that I have drafted and identify parts that are unclear, could delve deeper, or seem unnecessary. Because I am writing for an audience beyond academics, I’m eager to work closely with and hear feedback from a member of my intended audience. In turn, the apprentice will see behind the curtain, gaining familiarity with the messy and difficult process of creating the texts they read in class and learn about the mechanics of writing, while getting the chance to shape a piece of scholarship.
Once we’ve gotten through the 5-6 drafted chapters, the SHARE apprentice would help me transcribe historical documents that I will write about in the remaining 2-3 chapters. The apprentice will gain familiarity with working with historical evidence, and we can discuss what this evidence reveals and how it might shape the arguments I’m making. The apprentice will also learn how to do research to try to answer questions that come up for them while reading these documents.
Summer Schedule/Time Commitment:
This is a very flexible position, as the apprentice can complete most of the work independently, whenever they have free time. I will work with them to come up with a convenient time to meet virtually, and we can reschedule when need be. I do not have a strict deadline, so the apprentice can work at their own pace.
Preferred Qualifications:
Interest in New York City, the environment, or history would be ideal but are not required.
To Apply:
The application deadline has passed.
Please note:
All students hired for a SHARE Summer apprenticeship must complete a federal I-9 form and present original documents in person to OUR staff as part of the hiring process. Visit this U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services page for more information about acceptable documents. You cannot begin working until this is complete. Students are encouraged to plan ahead for this. For example, if you are going home for spring break, consider bringing documents back to campus with you.