Why did you choose to attend UM?
I chose to attend UM because of the beautiful campus and welcoming environment. As soon as I toured, I knew that I had found the university for me. Everyone I spoke to was kind, and all the greenery on campus made walking between buildings more of a treat than a chore.
When and how did you choose your major(s)/minor(s)?
I came into UM as a history and English double major. However, after taking one anthropology class, I quickly fell in love with archaeology. Something similar happened after taking two French classes. These majors allow me to connect with my relatives in French-Speaking Louisiana, and help me gain a broader understanding of cultures outside of my own.
What would you tell a high school student about your major?
Anthropology is a very broad and versatile field! At its core, its the study of humans, which takes many different forms. I personally am interested in archaeology (the study of humans through objects), but there's also places in the department for those more interested in the cultural or biological sides of anthropology.
Why is your department a special place?
The Anthropology and Sociology department at UM is extremely tight knit, and because of that, very personal. I was nervous at first that I wouldn't find a place, but everyone was welcoming and I never felt excluded. Professors and peers alike want to see you succeed, and all have a personal stake in your accomplishments. I've make lifelong friends in the department, something I will forever be grateful for.
Can you tell me about a professor or a class you've taken that has had the most impact on you?
Anthropology 101 with Dr. Matthew Murray had an extreme impact on me, causing me to switch my major entirely. His passion for his work was palpable in every lecture he gave, and his excitement was contagious. After two weeks of being in his class, I already knew that anthropology was the field for me.
What has been one of your most memorable or enjoyable moments at UM?
Late night study sessions with friends in the Honors College have been some of my favorite and most memorable moments at UM. Everyone involved orders a pizza or other snack to share, and we all work together to get our work done (or try our best to, anyways)!
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
After I graduate, I hope to pursue an M.A. in archaeology or collections management. I love the museum work aspect of the field, and I hope to pursue that for my future career. There is something extremely special about working with artifacts, even if it's something as small as a stone flake or piece of ceramic.
What is one thing you wish you knew as an incoming freshman that you'd tell your past self?
I would tell my past self that its ok to take time when finding your place on campus. It's easy to feel isolated when you first arrive, but you're guaranteed to make friends along the way. The people I've met at UM have helped me break out of my nervous shell, and I'm much happier now that I know them!
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