What do you do if you want to pursue a career in linguistic anthropology as a linguistics major?

1 Explore Options

If you're aiming for a career in linguistic anthropology, start by exploring the various subfields and career options. This field encompasses everything from documenting endangered languages to examining language's role in social identity. You might find yourself working in academia, conducting field research, or applying your skills in a governmental or non-profit organization. To get a sense of the possibilities, attend talks, read journals in the field, and connect with professionals. Understanding the breadth of options will help you tailor your academic pursuits and professional development activities.

2 Academic Path

Pursuing further education is often essential in linguistic anthropology. Consider enrolling in a graduate program that offers specialized courses in anthropological linguistics, sociolinguistics, or language documentation. These programs will provide you with the theoretical knowledge and research skills necessary to analyze language within its cultural context. Look for programs with faculty whose interests align with yours and offer opportunities for fieldwork, as hands-on experience is invaluable in this field.

3 Gain Experience

Gaining practical experience is crucial. Volunteer for research projects, intern at organizations focused on language preservation, or take part in field schools. These experiences will not only enhance your resume but also give you a taste of what working in linguistic anthropology entails. Networking with peers and mentors during these activities can lead to future job opportunities and collaborations. The more diverse your experiences, the better equipped you'll be to find your niche in the field.

4 Learn Tools

Familiarize yourself with the tools and technologies used in linguistic anthropology. Proficiency in audio and video recording equipment, transcription software, and language documentation databases is often necessary. Additionally, learning to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) can be beneficial for analyzing the geographical aspects of language use. Some of these skills can be self-taught, while others might require formal training or workshops, which are sometimes provided by universities or professional organizations.

5 Cultivate Skills

Your soft skills are just as important as your technical expertise. Linguistic anthropologists must be adept at cross-cultural communication, patient and observant while conducting fieldwork, and analytical when interpreting data. Languages beyond English can be invaluable, especially those spoken in the region you wish to study. Develop these skills through coursework, but also seek out real-world experiences that challenge you to interact with diverse groups and adapt to different environments.

6 Network Actively

Networking can open doors to opportunities in linguistic anthropology. Attend conferences, join professional organizations such as the Linguistic Society of America (LSA) or the American Anthropological Association (AAA), and engage with the community online. These connections can lead to collaborative projects, mentorship, and insights into the job market. Remember, your network is not just a source of job leads; it's a community of support and knowledge sharing that can guide you throughout your career.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?