MA Anthropology Statement of Purpose Example

MA Anthropology Statement of Purpose Examples

At 54 and semi-retired, I am eager to pursue a master's degree in Anthropology at the University of ____. This is the sole program I'm applying to, primarily due to my admiration for the faculty's expertise in my key interests: Paleo-Indian and hunter-gatherer studies. Additionally, the university's location is perfect. I am drawn to spend significant portions of my remaining years where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains, exploring the ancient civilizations and cultures that once thrived there. 

Over the past decade, I've spent time in South America and married my partner in Colombia. She is keen to experience life in the USA, and I have shared much about Colorado and Wyoming, regions I consider home. We converse entirely in Spanish, which I taught myself, and I am now assisting her in improving her English for this transition. While my interest in Anthropology was initially focused on Indigenous peoples of North America, I anticipate that my studies at the University of ____ will inspire me to apply my skills in both North and South America. My wife often compares me to Indiana Jones, which brings a smile to my face. 

My main interests include Paleo-Indian and hunter-gatherer studies, as well as using Geographic Information Sciences for archaeological or cultural resource management purposes. I have always been passionate about Indigenous cultures, both their present state and historical remnants. Although I've studied various Indigenous cultures of North America, I have a particular fondness for the Paleo-Indians. My time in South America, particularly in Peru and Colombia, has been enriched by visiting many ancient cultural sites. I am currently planning a trip to the Serranía de la Lindosa to view rock paintings that are approximately 12,000 years old, which is about a 14-hour drive from our home. 

Having grown up on a ranch in Texas, I have a deep appreciation for the land. Since the age of twelve, I have studied mounds, earthworks, maps, and artifacts. I spent two decades teaching in the Texas Prison System, focusing on Microsoft Office and Web Development, including two years as a principal. I also taught accounting and Business Law for four years in the Dallas school system. Thanks to a fortunate blend of luck and hard work, I no longer need to seek employment, allowing me to use my MA in Anthropology without financial constraints. I am delighted to have the freedom to volunteer or take on a low-paying yet fulfilling position. 

I own a home in Fort Collins, CO, about an hour away, and recently received 12 hours of Spanish credit at UW through examination. I also performed well on my GREs. I am eager to gain knowledge in Cultural Resource Management through your MA Program. I have completed courses in Intro to Archaeology, Intro to Cultural Anthropology, and Intro to Biological Anthropology, and will soon finish Linguistic Anthropology. It would be a great honor to study under Drs. K____, ____, and ____, whose research interests align with mine. 

In the early 90s, I worked for about six months in CRM (contract archaeology). However, as a single parent aspiring to be responsible, I chose a career in education to ensure a stable future for my child. Despite being an accounting major, my passion for archaeology led me to request contract archaeology reports via interlibrary loan, particularly from SMU, which conducted extensive work in Texas. I never sought anything related to accounting. Now, it's time to reclaim a dream that was set aside long ago—a dream lost shall become a dream recovered. 

Thank you for considering my application to Anthropology at the University of ____.

MA Anthropology Statement of Purpose Example