Diana Dimon Henry ’17

April 1, 2024

Through an intensive exploration of our world’s cultural, political, social, economic and technical transformation over the centuries, students in The University of Texas at Tyler’s bachelor’s in history program refine their writing, critical thinking, research and problem-solving skills in preparation for careers in education, library science, archival studies, law or government.

For Diana Dimon Henry, this foundation set the stage for a career in law. Before studying at Southern Methodist University’s Dedman School of Law and becoming an attorney, she studied at The University of Texas at Tyler because she wanted to stay close to home.

Initially, she focused her studies in a different area before changing her major to history. Through the program’s research- and writing-heavy curriculum, she presented papers at two separate conferences, had her work published and studied abroad. She also participated in the campus historical society and was accepted into multiple campus honors societies.

Do you have a favorite memory on campus?

Honestly, my favorite memories at UT Tyler were when I was in the classroom. Classes consisted of interesting lectures and open-minded discussions that had me looking forward to my next class.

What drew you to UT Tyler?

I grew up in the Tyler/Whitehouse area, so when I started school, I wanted to stay a little closer to home.

What was your major, and what interested you about your major?

When I started at UT Tyler, I initially declared a different major. However, when I began to seriously think about my future education and career, I wanted to study a subject I was truly passionate about, and to me, that has always been history.

About the BA/BS in History

No matter the degree program format selected, students explore history from a multifaceted global perspective, all while receiving a broad-based liberal arts education. In the process, they become stronger researchers, writers, problem-solvers and critical thinkers and have opportunities to intern at Parrott Park and Museum, Smith County Archives, and UT Tyler’s University Archives and Special Collections.

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Was there anything unique about your experience, including inside and outside of the classroom?

Within the class subjects, I was given the opportunity to explore subjects that I was (and still am) passionate about. Maybe that’s how college typically is, but I was not expecting that when I began preparing to research and write my first historical paper.

UT Tyler emphasizes career preparation and hands-on learning. What types of opportunities did you participate in (internships, research or travel study, for example), and what did you learn?

As a history major, research, critical thinking and writing are all key components. As I began to think about law school, those factors were yet another reason I chose history. I knew having this foundation would help me in my future education and career.

From day one, I had incredible professors and various UT Tyler staff who encouraged me, helped me strengthen those skills and introduced me to new opportunities. With the support and encouragement of my professors, family and friends, I presented two different papers at two different conferences by the time I finished my undergraduate degree. One of those topics even allowed me the opportunity to publish my work while I was in law school. Without my classes at UT Tyler, I would not have known about or even understood the complexities of the subject.

I also had the privilege to study abroad in the United Kingdom, France and Italy during a May semester through a communication course. I am still so thankful for this opportunity because it not only let me travel abroad but also allowed me to dive deeper into other cultures.

UT Tyler's Study Abroad Programs

Overseen by the Office of International Programs, UT Tyler’s study abroad opportunities emphasize a cross-cultural education that prepares students to compete and build connections in a globalized economy. In the process, students expand their perspective of their area of study and related industries while getting exposed to new cultures and visiting historical sites.

All Study Abroad Opportunities

Were you involved in any campus organizations or activities?

I am more of an introvert, so I wish I had been more involved on campus during my time there. I was mainly involved in the Frank H. Smyrl chapter of the Walter Prescott Webb Historical Society. By the time I graduated, I also had been accepted into the Phi Alpha Theta History Society, Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and Sigma Alpha Pi.

What were your goals or aspirations following graduation?

I graduated from UT Tyler in December 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. Since then, I graduated from SMU Dedman School of Law and have begun my career as an attorney.

What are you most thankful for about your time at UT Tyler?

I just would like to say thank you to all my professors for their support and encouragement. I always had guidance to help aid in my success, even after I graduated, and I will forever be thankful for my time at UT Tyler.