Sophie Elborough - Art History graduate
The research and analytical skills Sophie Elborough developed during her BA have proved invaluable in her role as Collection Technician.
Key facts
Career: Collection Technician and Research Support at Auckland War Memorial Museum
Programme: Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
Subjects: Art History; History
“I manage and enhance records within Auckland War Memorial Museum’s Online Cenotaph database, which is a living memorial to those who served Aotearoa New Zealand. I handle updates and requests from contributors regarding individual records and provide access to the museum’s broader collections. This involves assisting the public with various research needs, from locating family grave sites to supporting academic inquiries into military and social history.
“I also create digital content for Online Cenotaph, including blogs highlighting lesser-known stories, with a particular focus on women and Māori service personnel.
I enjoy working with the diverse communities that contribute to and use Online Cenotaph. Assisting contributors with their inquiries often leads to meaningful connections between people and their whakapapa, which is deeply rewarding and encourages them to embark on their own research journeys.
“I apply the research skills I developed at University daily, whether it is exploring family histories or examining primary source documents. Condensing large amounts of information into accessible formats has been crucial for writing articles and assisting the public with inquiries. The analytical skills I developed during my Bachelor of Arts has honed my attention to detail, which is invaluable in my current role.
“The University of Auckland allowed me to stay close to home while expanding my social and educational circle. The fantastic selection of Art History and History papers pushed me beyond my pre-existing knowledge, and great lecturers supported me throughout my studies.
“Several of my closest friends I met in the first few weeks of my degree in an introductory Art History paper. These connections have stuck with me, and I have built a fantastic community from the fellow students I studied with at the university.”