UWG Stories
Dr. Julie Wieczkowski
"Just learning that there are other ways of thinking and living around the world in different cultures is such an eye-opening experience."
Dr. Julie Wieczkowski spends her summer vacations visiting a favorite primate, the Tana River mangabey.
Camped out in tents deep inside the Tana River forests, she roughs it with fellow scientists to study and live with the critically endangered monkey. A decade ago, scientists counted only 1,200 of the species and Wieczkowski hopes to figure out why there are so few.
The professor’s years of teaching and research in the field of anthropology have convinced her that every student should take at least one course in the science.
“Anthropology is a discipline that can prepare students for anything else in life,” said Wieczkowski. “It can change their perspective of life. It’s changed mine. I no longer take things for granted. Just learning that there are other ways of thinking and living around the world in different cultures is such an eye-opening experience.’
West Georgia is one of two universities in the state system of Georgia to offer students a full and independent Department of Anthropology with classes in archaeology, physical anthropology, linguistics and cultural anthropology.
“Anthropology is a holistic discipline,” she explained. “It involves everything about humans and the manner in which humans live. Having our own department lets us offer a more focused program in anthropology.”
Having a career in anthropology is a thrill she hopes many of her students can experience.
“I can’t believe I am getting paid to do this,” she said. “It’s a wonderful way to live life.”
