I am fortunate to continue pursuing anthropology as my career as an incoming Assistant Professor of Biocultural Medical Anthropology at The University of Toronto—St. George. I use anthropological skills daily, whether connecting to community partners, planning mixed-methods research, or mentoring students. Although I am also a human biologist, I became an AAA member early in my career because I wanted to be exposed to all types of anthropological thinking. I stay an AAA member because, as a biocultural anthropologist, it is vital to see all types of anthropology—especially cultural.

"Being a fresh member of the American Anthropological Association has allowed me to connect with fellow anthropologists studying Iranian culture. Through this network, I've fostered collaborative knowledge-sharing, creating a space to share my studies with a diverse community. The AAA platform has enriched my research, providing valuable insights and expanding.

I believe that the next generation of student anthropologists thrive on curiosity and cultural sensitivity, immersing in diverse experiences, active engagement with their local communities, and forging meaningful community connections. They explore varied subfields, utilizing technology for research and networking, actively contributing to anthropology's evolving dialogue."

“As a high school student, overwhelmed by countless academic paths but driven by my desire to impact underprivileged communities positively, I found anthropology. My multicultural background amplified my curiosity about human societies, which led to my discovery and love for Anthropology, particularly Digital Anthropology. This field allowed me to explore humanity's digital evolution, from online societies to cryptocurrencies and digital personas. Embarking on this journey reinforced that choosing the right undergraduate school is a deeply personal decision requiring reflection and research. Despite the challenges, I am thrilled and empowered by my anthropological journey and am committed to contributing to this dynamic field for my long-term career aspirations. I AM AAA.”

“Before I joined the AAA staff in 2016, I was a linguistic anthropologist of education doing research on communication in the mathematics classroom. I learned to treat teachers and students as authorities on their own lived experience, and to listen carefully to the way they talk and tell their stories. Now I incorporate that philosophy into my work supporting anthropologists in their careers. I get to meet anthropologists from all different professional settings and career stages, from high school students to provosts and CEOs, and I use those insights to design new educational offerings for our community. I am AAA because anthropologists know how to talk to people, understand what they need, and work together to build solutions."

“I am AAA. My career has focused on research in the public interest, and, more recently, serving the profession. This work has been dedicated to the search for upstream solutions in the policy realm, where small, manageable changes at key intervention points can have significant impacts in the quest for a more just and sustainable future. I now have the privilege of leading the AAA staff, where every day we have the opportunity to fully exercise the Association’s convening power and the power of voice to advance human understanding and apply that understanding to tackling some of the world’s most pressing problems.”