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HistoryAidan Smyth

My Story

I grew up in Bethesda and attended Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School before heading to the Midwest for college. I graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. I loved living and studying in St. Louis for four years but I am very excited to be back home! I am endlessly fascinated by the urban built environment and the ideologies codified in the structures of our cities. Studying the built environment brings history to the present; the material I research is tangible just outside my door. I enjoy walking through cities and reading the urban landscape as I pass through it. For me, history is a dynamic, ever-changing discipline, and I hope that I can help my students see history the same way. Outside the classroom, I love playing sports and being active. I ran for the Track & Field team at WashU as a 400m and 800m specialist, but you can also find me on the basketball and tennis courts or the soccer field. Walking in nature or going for hikes is another one of my favorite ways to clear my head. I am also a musician and have played guitar since I was in Middle School. I focus most of my energy now on writing and recording my own songs. I am beyond thrilled to be joining the McLean School community. I was drawn to the school by its inclusive philosophy and approach to education, which I cannot wait to be a part of!