Alumni Updates
This May, Caleb Arsenault graduated with his Master of Historic Preservation! An alumni of Flagler College, Caleb was able to focus his newly learned skills as a preservation practitioner in a Spring 2024 internship with the National Park Service at the Castillo de San Marcos. Caleb was kind enough to share some of his experiences in an interview with HP Marketing Intern, Mackennah Tarmey:
MT: What inspired you to pursue a degree in Historic Preservation at UF, and how has it shaped your perspective on preserving cultural heritage?
CA: I wanted to specialize my passion for history towards a career that would allow me to see my impact. Historic preservation provides opportunities to interact with and support local communities and individuals by protecting the structures that are important to them.
MT: Can you share a memorable project or moment from your time in the program that had a significant impact on your understanding of historic preservation?
CA: Getting to conduct a cultural resource survey in Opa-locka, Florida in 2023 was one of the most memorable projects. Collaborating with classmates on a large-scale survey taught me a lot about the importance of preservation in strengthening communities.
MT: Is there a particular course, professor, or aspect of the program that you found particularly enriching or transformative?
CA: The Preservation Institute: Nantucket program over the Summer was a great opportunity to learn more about preservation in an entirely new environment. The friends made and the experiences shared through the program are unforgettable.
MT: In what ways has the UF Historic Preservation program prepared you for a career in preserving and promoting our cultural heritage? What do you plan on doing after graduation?
CA: The UF Historic Preservation program has furthered my understanding of the field and introduced me to resources and tools that are essential for preservationists. After graduation, I plan to continue my contributions to the field of historic preservation in Florida through a career in preservation and involvement with organizations that promote cultural and architectural heritage.
MT: What advice would you offer to individuals considering a career in historic preservation, and why do you believe it’s an important field to be a part of?
CA: I would advise individuals interested in historic preservation to emphasize their unique appreciation for the field. As a historian, I focus a lot of my work on historical research and understanding how places have changed over time. Whether your background is in archaeology, interior design, architecture, or any other field, historic preservation can always be approached from a different angle.
We are so proud of you, Caleb!