Georgetown College. Georgetown University.

Dr. John McNeill (Photo: Roland Dimaya)

What do you regard as your greatest academic success?
Probably writing the book titled Something New Under the Sun.

What is your idea of happiness?
At this stage of life, watching a sunset over the sea, with mountains in the background, surrounded by my close kin, including (well-behaved) children, while enjoying a cold beer.

Who or what was the greatest influence in your life that led to your career?
First, no doubt, my father, who is a historian. He never urged me to follow in his footsteps, but never discouraged me either. Second, a professor at Duke University named John Richards, recently deceased, who led me into environmental history.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently?
Yes, I might have tried to be a sportswriter. Or have studied Ottoman so as to be a historian of the Ottoman Empire.

What do you enjoy about teaching?
Talking with students about their research projects is probably my favorite part. Watching the good ones perform, or receive recognition is also great, too.

Who are your favorite heroes/heroines in real life (and why)?
I have had none since the death of Walter Payton.

Who is your favorite musician?
Bob Marley.

Who is your favorite thinker?
Ibn Khaldun.

What historical figure would you most like to meet and why?
Alexander the Great; I’d like to know why he was driven.

If you could change one thing at Georgetown, what would it be?
I would wave a magic wand and create a real research library.

If you could come back to life as a plant/animal/thing, what would it be?
I prefer being human.

What, if any, is your phobia?
Silly questions!

How do you have fun?
Playing basketball, tennis, or hiking.

What is the best piece of advice you could give to your students?
See the world while you are young and impressionable.

What is your motto?
Don’t let school get in the way of your education.

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