I have studied History, English and Education. I have degrees in each and an honours specalist in History.
Lately, I've started delving into my own family roots and history more. When you come from 'the new world' you end up with a lot of roots to untangle. As a result I've been doing a good deal of work on French, Irish and Native Canadian (Mohawk) history. Last summer I finally made it to the last of my ancestral homelands when I visited the Republic of Ireland (I had been to France three years before). I find that discovering your own personal history greatly augments your understanding of yourself and the world around you.
I also believe in coupling 'book learning' with travel, talking to people, and trying to better understand the culture. Ireland was fun because understanding the culture was buying rounds and learning/singing songs with many newfound friends. I definitely came away with a better understanding and I find it augments my teaching.