Anthropology

In elementary and middle school, I quickly developed interests in many different subjects. I loved history, mythology, social justice, and science. I was already thinking far into the future, planning which colleges to apply to and what careers I should pursue. There were so many fascinating things in the world; how could I choose just one?

I love everything about anthropology! It combines linguistics, culture, history, and biology into one field, searching to understand what it means to be human.

With my growing interest in biology and chemistry, I have chosen to focus on biological or evolutionary anthropology.

Below are some of my related experiences, interests, articles, and resources.

MOREZ

WORKSHOP IN THE CAPITAL OF ENAMEL IN FRANCE
Led by AUP Professor Christy Shields, this study trip is dedicated to a workshop in one of the last studios of enamel in France. Students apply skills from the Jewelry-making class to develop and make an original project of enamel. Students apply sensory ethnography skills from the Anthropology of Senses class. A visit to Saint-Claude and studios of Diamond cutters, pipe carvers, and watch makers is included.

UGANDA

EXPLORING UGANDA THROUGH ITS CULTURE, SOCIETY AND ENVIRONMENT
Led by AUP Professor Tanya Elder, the study trip to Uganda provides students with the opportunity to encounter members of the local community to explore such topics as the conservation of wildlife, environmental issues, cultural expression, and local livelihoods. This study trip will allow students to deepen their understanding of global processes and contemporary ethical issues.

Cairo and the Valley of the Kings

This study trip while studying at the American University of Paris fulfilled a childhood dream of mine: to visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings!

Led by AUP Professor David Tresillian, we learned about ancient and modern Egyptian culture and society. We visited pyramids, mosques, Coptic churches, synagogues, and bazaars in Cairo and Giza. We took an overnight train to Luxor, and visited the Valley of the Kings.

NCSSM Summer Ventures: Archaeology

I was thrilled to join this month-long program as a rising junior!

Unfortunately, COVID prevented the program from operating residentially, resulting in a virtual program instead.

The work involved presentations about archaeology and critical thinking. The final product was a research paper and presentation about a topic of our choice, mine was on the Sphinx of Giza.

Summer Ventures in Science and Mathematics is a no-cost, state-funded program for academically talented North Carolina students who aspire to careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. If hands-on, independent learning is appealing to you, and you are excited about the idea of conducting research to answer questions that intrigue you, this is the program for you! A selective program that required the following as part of the application:

Confidential STEM teacher evaluation
Confidential English teacher evaluation
Confidential counselor evaluation
Evidence of academic performance

Joara - Wikipedia

Joara: The Berry Site

The summer as a rising freshman, I had the wonderful experience of working on a current archaeological site!

This week-long summer archaeology residential camp looked fascinating. I had to complete an application with an essay explaining my desire along with a recommendation. I was pleased to be accepted to the camp and learned I was a rare freshman admitted to the high school program on the merit of my essay.

Joara - North Carolina History ProjectDuring the late-sixteenth century, Joara was the most dominant, and possibly the largest, town in what is now modern-day Piedmont and western North Carolina. Located in Burke County, twelve miles north of Morganton, on Upper Creek, Joara was, according to historians, “the northeastern edge of the Mississippian cultural world.” Its economic and political prominence and its location prompted Spanish explorer Juan Pardo to construct Fort San Juan near the Indian town.

Duke TIP: Stones & Bones

In 7th grade, I had the amazing opportunity to attend a 3-week Duke TIP camp at Wake Forest University. Because of my interest in archaeology, I picked the Stones and Bones: Archaeology and Anthropology program. I cried on the first day of camp because of how happy I was.

This camp introduced me to the wide, interdisciplinary world of anthropology. It was perfect! It combined so many of my interests. Here I learned the basics of four-field anthropology and made some of the best memories of my life. I made friends with similar interests, got an insight into college life, and learned from passionate individuals.

I am so glad that I had this opportunity and that the world of anthropology opened to me!