Applying Anthropology on the Journey Towards Self-Directed Learning and Community Advocacy

Abstract

Abstract Anthropologist, health disparities researcher, health services administration faculty, community health worker trainer, evaluator, board co-chair, research center director, grant writer, special populations recruitment consultant, Montessori teacher educator, breastfeeding advocate, school wellness evaluator and advocate, unschooling parent of four, health leadership fellow—one could never have drawn me a road map of where I would be and what I would be doing. This paper will offer insights on a career and personal path that diverged from a traditional academic one and emerged in response to the needs of community, the opportunities presented, and a flexibility that sees applications of anthropology everywhere.