About Me
I am Amy Houbé, a French historian and recent graduate from Sciences Po Paris, where I completed a Master of Research in History. My academic journey has been shaped by a deep curiosity for the past, one that began in my childhood in the countryside of France, surrounded by the bunkers and remnants of World War II in my hometown of Saint-Avold, Lorraine. Growing up among these historical traces ignited my passion for history, memory, and heritage, themes that continue to drive my work today.
Academic Journey
My name, Amy, has always felt like a nod to my love for the English language and culture, a passion that pushed me to explore the world beyond France. I began my undergraduate studies at Sciences Po Paris in the European-North America Program at the Reims campus, where I embraced the opportunity to study abroad. During my third year, I lived a full Texan experience at the University of Texas at Austin (Hook ‘em Horns!), immersing myself in American culture and academia.
For my master’s thesis, I specialized in the management and memorialization of American war dead during and after World War II, under the supervision of Guillaume Piketty. This research was deeply personal, inspired by the Lorraine American Cemetery in Saint-Avold, a site that connects my local roots to a global history. Now, I am eager to expand this work into a PhD, with a focus on the management of war dead in the Pacific Theater. My research has already taken me to archives across the US, France, the UK, and Poland, and I am currently applying to international programs to continue this journey.
While awaiting the next chapter of my academic career, I work as a Production Assistant for « Le Cours de l’Histoire », a flagship radio show on France Culture, France’s leading national radio program. This role allows me to stay connected to historical storytelling and public engagement with the past.
Passions & Interests
History is not just my profession; it’s my passion. I am fascinated by Antiquity, from Ancient Egypt (my cat, Ramsès, is named in its honor!) to Ancient Greece and Rome, as well as Modern History. I love to learn, share, and question the past, always seeking to understand its layers and legacies.
Beyond the archives, I am deeply involved in art and history associations. I serve as a Youth Assembly Member and Youth Ambassador for the Château de Versailles, and I volunteer at the Archives of Auschwitz-Birkenau, experiences that ground my academic work in meaningful action.
When I’m not buried in books or archives, you can find me:
- Running through the streets of Paris (or wherever I am!)
- Cooking and baking, a creative outlet that balances my intellectual pursuits
- Reading everything from social science essays to the latest novels, especially cozy mystery and romance novels
- Indulging in pop culture as a proud Swiftie and fan of Gilmore Girls to embrace autumn vibes
Let’s Connect
I am always eager to discuss history, research, or shared interests. I also enjoy sharing my research, whether it’s knowledge or my life as a researcher, and my trips on Instagram, where I connect with others who share my enthusiasm for history on @amy_overseas.