Divergent Paths to Career Fulfillment in Applied Anthropology

Abstract

Despite their academic training, most anthropologists do not work in tenure-track positions in departments of anthropology. While some systematic data indicate where these anthropologists are employed, we know less about their experiences or what led them to work outside the academy. This paper discusses examples of divergent career paths among the special issue contributors and analyzes key themes in their papers. While their histories vary generationally, our authors share commonalities. Many mastered cross-over skills that prepared them to work collaboratively and to apply anthropological insights and methods in research and community settings. Some perceived stigma and barriers to communicating with traditional academic colleagues. Others merged theory and practice to develop pedagogical reforms. Drawing on lessons as mentors in training programs and advocates in our own careers, we recommend that practitioners' narratives be used to re-imagine career options, revise training programs, and increase visibility for applied careers across the anthropological community.

Beyond Anthropology's Edges

“…This perhaps explains the nonchalance that my talk in Sweden received; the people in the audience likely all had experience 'outside' the academy and/ or were looking to leave the university. Further, researchers have noted that the 'lone wolf' tendency within the academy and the lack of practical career training has meant that many anthropologists must 'individually discover how to bring anthropological insights and skills to settings and people unfamiliar with anthropological practice' (Fix and Elroy 2020: 3) Hence we have individuals who are pragmatic and entrepreneurial both within the university and without but not the collective efforts necessary to build the anthropological discipline more broadly.…”

“…As Douglas has stated, such categorisations do not exist in a vacuum and are not absolute nor impervious to change (1986: 4). Like others, I would like to see the academy incorporate applied anthropologists (Brody and Pester 2014;Platzer and Allison 2018;Fix and Elroy 2020). It would also be nice to be able to promise students well-paid and interesting careers and to see the anthropological profession grow in both size and reputation.…”