How I Turned My Graduate History Degree into a Profitable Venture
While pursuing my Ph.D. in history, I constantly grappled with a seemingly taboo topic among my peers: money. The allure of the “poor scholar” archetype cast a shadow over any aspirations for financial stability, deeming such concerns not only unseemly but also dismissive of the purity of academia. In a world where the pursuit of knowledge is revered, the idea of wanting a comfortable income felt, in some circles, almost vulgar.
The Undeniable Financial Reality
However, I couldn’t ignore the frightening reality of my dwindling bank account. The desire for a financial safety net grew stronger. I wanted to manage unexpected expenses without the gnawing fear of financial ruin. Living paycheck to paycheck and scrutinizing every purchase—from lattes to lunch—was unsustainable. Over time, this unrelenting pressure made me reconsider my path in academia, ultimately leading to a brave decision: I chose to leave the program.
Discovering the Potential Beyond Academia
Leaving graduate school was a pivotal moment for my financial future, albeit a tumultuous one. Initially, I feared that stepping away from the academic track meant abandoning my passion. But soon, I realized I could pursue my love for history on my own terms. To my surprise, I found avenues where I could monetize my historical expertise, rather than relying purely on transferable skills.
Embracing Transferable Skills
After departing from academia, I leaned heavily into the notion of transferable skills. Those in the humanities, I was told, could pivot into nonacademic roles by showcasing how their experiences could benefit employers. For example, a Ph.D. in English could thrive in marketing, while a psychology Ph.D. could design consumer studies.
In my case, my ability to synthesize diverse sources and tackle research projects made me perfect for roles in data analytics and project management. But honestly? Initial job-hunting attempts using this narrative didn’t yield much success. I eventually became a data analyst—not through persuasive storytelling about my research skills, but by following traditional job-hunting methods like networking and proving my worth in an entry-level position.
Rediscovering the Value of My Degree
Over time, I began to realize that my academic experiences held intrinsic value beyond the scope of traditional employment. There is a unique niche market for humanities work outside academia, if you know where to look. This is where entrepreneurial thinking becomes essential.
Treating My Passion Like a Business
Treating my academic pursuits as a business meant recognizing the worth of my skills in niche markets and being proactive in marketing myself. I turned to freelance work, crafting articles and scripts centered around historical themes. By establishing a robust online presence through platforms like LinkedIn, Upwork, and Freelancer, I created a pipeline of clients willing to pay for unique, engaging content.
Creating My Own Opportunities
While freelancing can be lucrative, it does come with limitations. Clients often dictate topics, leaving little room for creative control. To regain control over my content, I initiated my own projects, such as a dedicated website on European history and documentary-style YouTube videos. These platforms can be monetized through ads and subscription services, allowing me to earn while pursuing my passion.
I’ve witnessed firsthand the success of these ventures—clients have compensated me well for writing articles on niche historical topics and scripting engaging history videos. Today, I command rates of $40 per hour, refusing to accept less than $30. If a potential client balks at my rate, I simply wish them well and move on. Remember: having multiple income streams enhances your bargaining power during pay negotiations.
Building Toward Your Goals
Establishing yourself in this niche market takes time. It’s wise to maintain stable sources of income while building your brand. Whether you keep your humanities work as a supplemental income or aspire to transition it into a full-time pursuit is entirely up to you. In fact, some graduate students successfully ran blogs or podcasts alongside their academic commitments, even if their advisers didn’t always encourage it.
Embracing Your Academic Skills
My journey isn’t meant to vilify academia or discourage others from seeking traditional career paths. It’s about recognizing the inherent value of your academic skills outside an academic setting. Your degree—whether in history or any other field—has potential that extends beyond the classroom.
Conclusion: Monetize Your Passion
If you find yourself at a crossroads, know that pursuing financial security does not diminish your dedication to your craft. Embrace the journey, explore your options, and feel empowered to earn a living from your passion. The world is waiting for your unique perspective—seize the opportunity to make it profitable.
For more insights on monetizing your expertise outside traditional career paths, check out The Freelance Movement or explore options on platforms like Upwork and Freelancer.
Written by Miles Reding, a freelance writer with a master’s in history from Northwestern University.
