How
did you decide on Anthropology/History as your double major?
The majority of students
tend to view the “way back then” as a never ending timeline
of tedious dates, names, and events. Even though timelines are important
(and may help you on a test), it is important to remember that the past
is not stagnant; history is constantly being written and re-written as
new information comes to light and as paradigms shift. Thus, I chose to
study history because it is a dynamic discipline which offers a myriad
of possibilities.
I decided to major
in Anthropology after enrolling in an introductory level class. While
archaeology is not as glorified as Indiana Jones makes it out to be (sorry
Indiana, might as well trade in that whip for a trowel and some sunscreen),
archaeologists literally discover the past, and piece together history
one artifact at a time.
What
advice would you give to an underclassman considering your major?
For prospective history majors: The study
of the past is essentially the study of your past, because 1) past, present,
and future are inextricably interrelated, and you are another link in
the chain of progression, 2) your experiences will color the way in which
you view historical events and trends.
For prospective anthropology/archaeology majors:
1. Watch Star Trek. This series will teach you everything you need to
know about the prime directive, a major tenet of anthropology.
2. Watch the Indiana Jones trilogy. You will be none the wiser about archaeology,
but at least Harrison Ford made us look good.
What
student activities/organizations are you involved with outside of the
classroom?
I have been a member of the Archaeology Field School team for two field
seasons. This opportunity has allowed me to gain invaluable knowledge
relating to archaeological method and theory. I am also a member of the
Anthropological Society which serves as both an academic and volunteer
organization, and I have had the good fortune of being inducted into two
honor societies, Phi Alpha Theta (History) and Lambda Alpha (Anthropology).
What
is your favorite book?
1984 by George Orwell is one of my favorite
books. While I feel that Orwell’s dire prophecy of a despotic nation
dominated by Big Brother and telescreens is overly pessimistic, I believe
that there are important lessons to be learned from 1984 about the course
of our own future.
What
do you plan/hope to do with your major after you graduate?
I plan to pursue a
Masters degree in Anthropology with an emphasis on American Indian and
Mesoamerican archaeology.
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