While first-year papers do not need to set the direction for dissertation research, it is usually to the student's advantage if the topic of the paper is similar or related to subsequent dissertation research. Because first-year papers closely aligned with subsequent dissertation research projects allow students to begin their research early, they may serve as a strong basis for writing a compelling dissertation research proposal that successfully attracts outside funding in support of research travel for dissertation purposes. Identifying and accessing primary research materials in the United States may prove challenging for any student, but this is almost universally the case for students in African history. Students are therefore encouraged to commence thinking about their first-year research paper well before they arrive at Hopkins in the fall for their first semester of enrollment. A faculty advisor will likely contact students admitted into the program during the spring or summer preceding their enrollment to discuss the paper and to encourage them to begin their research over the summer.
Fields of study are highly flexible and individually designed for each student.
The relationship between the student and the faculty person directing a particular field of study is usually tutorial. A student undertakes a major field of study with his or her faculty advisor and another minor field within the department. Students in African history often select a field with both professors Berry and Larson. At least one of the four fields must be exterior to the department. Fields may also be taken with faculty in other humanities and social science departments or in university institutes .