History and political science major examines US history through theatre and film

Heather Cook ’25 has been interested in the American Revolution since she was 8 years old, so it was no surprise when the history and political science major chose to study the period for her Independent Study project at The College of Wooster. Cook took a unique approach to the topic, studying how the musicals 1776 and Hamilton, about John Adams and Alexander Hamilton, respectively, impact people’s political knowledge and perception of the historical figures and make information easier to understand. “Finding out that political knowledge can be more accessible and understandable to Americans through film was extremely satisfying for me,” Cook said.  

“Finding out that political knowledge can be more accessible and understandable to Americans through film was extremely satisfying for me.”

—Heather Cook ’25

MY I.S. 

Cook: My I.S. looks at the role that the musicals 1776 and Hamilton play in political knowledge and perception regarding John Adams’s and Alexander Hamilton’s contributions to the creation of the American standards of governance. Overall, my I.S. displayed a need for political knowledge and education surrounding the founding fathers so that individuals can make educated decisions about modern politics that are based on the political beliefs of founders such as Adams and Hamilton. 

EXCITING ASPECTS 

Cook: I was excited about my I.S. throughout the entirety of the process. I loved being able to share that passion with those around me. I was especially excited about the results of my I.S. experiment in finding that film and media do contribute to political knowledge.  

EMPOWERED IN MY FIELD 

Cook: I.S. gave me the perfect platform and opportunity to explore a subject that I have been interested in for years on a much deeper intellectual level. It also allowed me to relate my studies to the current state of the world and put my major into context with current events. 

SUPPORTIVE SCOT COMMUNITY 

Cook: My friends were all extremely supportive throughout the I.S. process. Since most of my friends are seniors, we would occasionally proofread each other’s chapters, help brainstorm ideas, and provide moral and emotional support throughout the process. I am also exceedingly grateful to my advisors not only for supporting me throughout the entire process and helping me learn more about myself, which will be super helpful in my future academic endeavors. 

MY TAKEAWAYS 

Cook: Aside from the specific results of my study, I learned methods in which I learn, think, and work best. The most important thing I.S. taught me was to have confidence in myself, my work, and my decisions. 

CELEBRATION 

Cook: On I.S. Monday I celebrated with others who were turning in their projects, watched my friend group’s favorite TV show, and participated in the I.S. Monday parade and festivities. 

WHAT’S NEXT 

Cook: I plan to attend Northern Kentucky University Salmon P. Chase College of Law in Highland Heights, Kentucky to pursue a degree focusing in constitutional and civil rights law. 

Posted in Independent Study on May 9, 2025.