Anthropology??

Question

I had a strong notion to start off with physical therapy in college, but now I'm not so sure. I don't even know if I'll like it. I heard that it is very difficult to get into the physical therapy program right now, and it requires A LOT of science-related courses (yuck for me). On the other hand, anthropology looks very appealing to me; I find the most interest in learning about cultures and people and what they do around the world. However, I don't know where an anthropologist would work, seeing that it's not all that "practical," whereas a physical therapist could find a job quite easily. Should I go with the physical therapy or the anthropology? Personal experience witht the field would be a great help!! Thanks in advance! :-)

Answer 1

i did one of my undergrad degrees in anthropology. to go anywhere with that you really have to get a masters or a phd. they're the ones who get to do the fun stuff like ethnographies and digging up "lost cities" even working with museum goods. they are also the ones that ever make any money. there are bottom rung jobs in anthropology where you can work as a surveyor  (companies that are building are required by law to have an anthropologist survey the land before construction begins to make sure there is nothing of cultural value to be lost there) but i found these positions to be difficult and too political because the companies that are building will try to pay  you off not to tell anyone if you foudn something important. its fascinating in the classroom but i just think it gets way too political out there in the field which is why i've given up finding a job as one.

Answer 2

You might consider medical anthropology as a minor or double major with physical therapy. Anthropologists, though, are finding more work than ever as people realize its importance. Even corporations are beginning to see the need to understand other cultures. Personally I think all of our leaders need anthropological assistance.

Answer 3

it's difficult to get a job with a degree in anthro unless you go to grad school... and even then most options outside of fieldwork are limited to the classroom.  medical anthro is really interesting, and i enjoy it, but still, outside of fieldwork and teaching it's hard to get a job.  i think it all depends on your interests-- if you're not that devoted, try a minor... then you get all the really awesome ethnography classes without really having to try and find a job with just a degree in anthro.

Answer 4

Anthropology is very interesting.  PT would definitely be more practicall, but why not double major or make anthropology your minor?  I have a BS in Psych with a minor in anthropology.  I got to go on an archeological dig at James Madison's house for my Archeology class, so that was cool.   I would take an introduction to anthrology and see how you like it!  That's how I decided to make it my minor.  Anthropologists would work in a museum or do field research.