<p>Travel ignited Clif Hubby's passion for history. As a teenager, he hitchhiked across Europe, exploring ancient ruins, picking grapes in France, and even playing an extra in a World War II movie in Bavaria. An impactful course on the French Revolution at Columbia University further deepened his interest, leading him to pursue a PhD in medieval history.</p> <p>One professor's incisive approach to primary sources and historical arguments particularly inspired Hubby, who became fascinated by the origins of Europe during the Middle Ages. He began teaching at NYU SPS while working on his PhD and, after a stint elsewhere, returned full-time when an opportunity arose. Now he teaches courses within the <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ba-in-social-sciences.html" title="BA in Social Sciences">BA in Social Sciences</a>, many of which focus on the Middle Ages’ history and culture.</p>

<p>Initially, Hubby did not set out to become a teacher. However, once he began, his passion for teaching developed quickly. What excites him is the sense of mutual discovery in the classroom.</p> <p>Hubby finds the diverse student body at the NYU SPS <a href="/content/sps-nyu/about/academic-divisions-and-departments/division-of-applied-undergraduate-studies.html" title="Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies">Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies </a>particularly inspiring. Students come from all over the world and from various backgrounds, all led by their unique educational goals. He keeps in touch with many former students who have gone on to diverse careers, such as a veteran turned writer, a Mauritanian now working for the UN, and a history enthusiast who now works in art auctions. Another former student, who co-led the History Club, now does social media for a startup and has authored books, including one on business lessons from Taylor Swift.</p>

<p>Teaching history requires constant adaptation. While history doesn’t necessarily change, the technology used to uncover the past is always evolving. Hubby emphasizes that understanding the distant past can illuminate the fragility of our own society and extend our imagination about human capabilities. He finds it challenging but essential to make the past relevant to today’s students.</p> <p>Hubby hopes his students understand that history is about how the past paved the way for the present. The Middle Ages, though strange and exotic, were foundational to Western societies. For example, how Joan of Arc, seen as a divine messenger in her time, has become a symbol of strength and independence in modern times. Through such examples, Hubby illustrates how people in the past perceived the world differently yet laid the groundwork for contemporary society.</p>

<p>Hubby brings his experiences into the classroom through travel stories and research anecdotes. He also connects historical figures to modern contexts, such as examining Alexander the Great's leadership qualities and their relevance today. Additionally, he employs project-based learning, such as having students design museum exhibits, to teach organizational, visual, and storytelling skills vital in today's workplace.</p>

<p>Encouraging students to take full advantage of NYU's resources, Hubby emphasizes the importance of engaging in university life, from attending talks and joining clubs to utilizing library resources and networking opportunities. He advises students to focus on learning and developing critical thinking skills rather than merely striving for grades. Hubby also stresses the importance of seeking help from professors and recognizing that learning is a gradual process.</p> <p>Take a deep dive into Medieval history to uncover secrets of the past in order to shape the future when you pursue a <a href="/content/sps-nyu/explore/degrees-and-programs/ba-in-social-sciences.html" title="BA in Social Sciences">BA in Social Sciences</a> at NYU SPS.</p>