3 answers
Autumn
Student
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Question
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I love my major BUT ?
I love anthropology, i enjoy my classes and i really want to go through with it. I want to become a forensic anthropologist but everything is cultural.
Im interested in the biology part. Im scared to double major, i already have a forensic studies minor.
Im just worried that everything im taking is too cultural or like sociology-esce and it isn’t enough for what i want.
I want STEM. What do i do??
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3 answers
Mackenzie Belletini
Journalism
5
Answers
Madison, Wisconsin
Updated
Mackenzie’s Answer
Hi Autumn! As someone wrapping up my college experience now, I've definitely been in a similar situation before. My freshman year, I was majoring solely in Psychology, super passionate about mental health and advocacy and hoping to pursue a career in the behavioral health field. At the end of that year, I came across the Neurobio dept at my school and suddenly, after never considering hard stem before, I wanted to double major. I met with a Neuro advisor and made a hypothetical graduation plan and everything. We had a long chat about what double majoring really means in terms of time commitment and whatnot and if I want to go to med school and everything, and he gave me some really good advice. He told me that there will be very few other times in my life that I'm able to try new things like this, so if I'm interested in the major, I should go ahead and try it. And somewhere down the line, if it doesn't work out, it doesn't work out. And that's okay.
Here's what I would say, if you're interested in biology, take a bio course or two and see how it goes. Do you like it? is it interesting to you? Does the information seem accessible to you or is it really difficult? And be really honest with yourself about it, if it ends up not being for you, that's okay.
While college is the time that you finally get to focus on your specific interests, its also the time when you get to figure out exactly what those interests are. Take advantage of that!
Here's what I would say, if you're interested in biology, take a bio course or two and see how it goes. Do you like it? is it interesting to you? Does the information seem accessible to you or is it really difficult? And be really honest with yourself about it, if it ends up not being for you, that's okay.
While college is the time that you finally get to focus on your specific interests, its also the time when you get to figure out exactly what those interests are. Take advantage of that!
Kevin Corkran
Mergers and Acquisitions Tax Associate
26
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Hi Autumn,
What do you mean everything is cultural? If you want to do excavations, perhaps an archeologist might be a better career path for you?
My advice: Talk to people doing the job you want to do. Send them an email and ask them to set up a time to answer some questions you have about their career path. Most good people will pick up.
Sincerely,
Kevin
What do you mean everything is cultural? If you want to do excavations, perhaps an archeologist might be a better career path for you?
My advice: Talk to people doing the job you want to do. Send them an email and ask them to set up a time to answer some questions you have about their career path. Most good people will pick up.
Sincerely,
Kevin
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
6840
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Autumn!
Understanding Your Path in Forensic Anthropology
To navigate your concerns about pursuing a career as a forensic anthropologist while feeling that your current coursework is too focused on cultural aspects, it’s essential to break down the components of your academic journey and explore how you can align your studies with your interests in biology and STEM.
1. Clarify Your Career Goals
Forensic anthropology is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of anthropology, biology, and forensic science. As a forensic anthropologist, you will primarily focus on the biological aspects of human remains, including identification and analysis. Understanding this can help you identify which courses are essential for your career aspirations.
2. Assess Your Current Curriculum
Since you are currently majoring in anthropology with a minor in forensic studies, review the specific courses you have taken or plan to take. Identify which classes emphasize biological anthropology or forensic science. Look for courses such as:
Biological Anthropology: This course focuses on human evolution, genetics, and the biological aspects of humans.
Forensic Osteology: A specialized course that deals with the identification and analysis of skeletal remains.
Human Anatomy: Understanding human anatomy is crucial for any forensic work involving remains.
If these types of courses are lacking in your current program, it may be necessary to seek additional classes either within your institution or through online platforms.
3. Explore Additional STEM Opportunities
If you’re concerned about not having enough STEM content in your education, consider the following options:
Take Additional Science Courses: Enroll in biology, chemistry, or even physics courses that can provide a strong foundation for understanding human biology and decomposition processes.
Look for Interdisciplinary Programs: Some universities offer programs specifically designed for students interested in forensic science that combine elements from both anthropology and biological sciences.
Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects related to forensic anthropology or biological sciences. This hands-on experience can enhance your understanding and make you more competitive when applying for jobs or graduate programs.
4. Consider Graduate Studies
Many positions in forensic anthropology require advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.). Research potential graduate programs that focus on forensic anthropology or related fields like bioarchaeology or osteology. These programs often have a stronger emphasis on the scientific aspects of the field.
5. Network with Professionals
Connect with professionals already working in forensic anthropology through internships, workshops, or conferences. Networking can provide insights into what skills are most valued in the field and help guide your educational choices.
6. Seek Academic Advising
Consult with academic advisors at your institution who specialize in anthropology or forensic studies. They can provide tailored advice based on your interests and help you create an academic plan that aligns with both your passion for anthropology and your desire to incorporate more STEM-focused studies.
Conclusion
In summary, while it may feel daunting to balance cultural studies within anthropology with a desire for more STEM-focused content, there are numerous pathways available to tailor your education toward becoming a successful forensic anthropologist. By strategically selecting courses, seeking additional opportunities in science, considering further education, networking within the field, and utilizing academic resources at your institution, you can achieve a well-rounded education that meets both your interests and career goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) - A professional organization dedicated to advancing science within the legal system; provides resources on various disciplines including forensic anthropology.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) - Offers research-based information on crime scene investigation techniques including those relevant to forensic anthropology; valuable for understanding practical applications.
Society for American Archaeology (SAA) - Provides resources related to archaeological practices including bioarchaeology; useful for understanding the intersection between archaeology and physical anthropology.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Understanding Your Path in Forensic Anthropology
To navigate your concerns about pursuing a career as a forensic anthropologist while feeling that your current coursework is too focused on cultural aspects, it’s essential to break down the components of your academic journey and explore how you can align your studies with your interests in biology and STEM.
1. Clarify Your Career Goals
Forensic anthropology is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of anthropology, biology, and forensic science. As a forensic anthropologist, you will primarily focus on the biological aspects of human remains, including identification and analysis. Understanding this can help you identify which courses are essential for your career aspirations.
2. Assess Your Current Curriculum
Since you are currently majoring in anthropology with a minor in forensic studies, review the specific courses you have taken or plan to take. Identify which classes emphasize biological anthropology or forensic science. Look for courses such as:
Biological Anthropology: This course focuses on human evolution, genetics, and the biological aspects of humans.
Forensic Osteology: A specialized course that deals with the identification and analysis of skeletal remains.
Human Anatomy: Understanding human anatomy is crucial for any forensic work involving remains.
If these types of courses are lacking in your current program, it may be necessary to seek additional classes either within your institution or through online platforms.
3. Explore Additional STEM Opportunities
If you’re concerned about not having enough STEM content in your education, consider the following options:
Take Additional Science Courses: Enroll in biology, chemistry, or even physics courses that can provide a strong foundation for understanding human biology and decomposition processes.
Look for Interdisciplinary Programs: Some universities offer programs specifically designed for students interested in forensic science that combine elements from both anthropology and biological sciences.
Research Opportunities: Engage in research projects related to forensic anthropology or biological sciences. This hands-on experience can enhance your understanding and make you more competitive when applying for jobs or graduate programs.
4. Consider Graduate Studies
Many positions in forensic anthropology require advanced degrees (Master’s or Ph.D.). Research potential graduate programs that focus on forensic anthropology or related fields like bioarchaeology or osteology. These programs often have a stronger emphasis on the scientific aspects of the field.
5. Network with Professionals
Connect with professionals already working in forensic anthropology through internships, workshops, or conferences. Networking can provide insights into what skills are most valued in the field and help guide your educational choices.
6. Seek Academic Advising
Consult with academic advisors at your institution who specialize in anthropology or forensic studies. They can provide tailored advice based on your interests and help you create an academic plan that aligns with both your passion for anthropology and your desire to incorporate more STEM-focused studies.
Conclusion
In summary, while it may feel daunting to balance cultural studies within anthropology with a desire for more STEM-focused content, there are numerous pathways available to tailor your education toward becoming a successful forensic anthropologist. By strategically selecting courses, seeking additional opportunities in science, considering further education, networking within the field, and utilizing academic resources at your institution, you can achieve a well-rounded education that meets both your interests and career goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) - A professional organization dedicated to advancing science within the legal system; provides resources on various disciplines including forensic anthropology.
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) - Offers research-based information on crime scene investigation techniques including those relevant to forensic anthropology; valuable for understanding practical applications.
Society for American Archaeology (SAA) - Provides resources related to archaeological practices including bioarchaeology; useful for understanding the intersection between archaeology and physical anthropology.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.