Anthropology: Exploring Cultures, Preserving Histories | Spotlight on Caroline Keller
Caroline Keller, a junior double-majoring in anthropology and history with minors in French and Geographic Information System Technology, has found an academic home in the School of Anthropology. As an SBS Ambassador, she is passionate about sharing the value of her major with future Wildcats while pursuing her own academic journey. Caroline has been involved with projects like the Arizona Sicily Project and the Arizona State Museum — experiences that have allowed her to connect classroom learning with real-world research. In this Q&A, she reflects on what drew her to anthropology, what she has discovered through her undergraduate research, and the skills she’s carrying forward beyond graduation.
What first sparked your interest in anthropology?
When I was younger, I lived in the Republic of Georgia and Ethiopia for a few years. Meeting people from many different backgrounds deepened my interest in history and archaeology. Anthropology allows me to better understand cultures and ask important questions—such as why people do the things they do. Archaeology provides a hands-on way to explore those questions.
How would you describe the anthropology program at UA to a prospective student?
It is very dynamic. The professors are engaged in fascinating work around the world, and they are approachable, supportive and dedicated. If you have a particular interest, they are more than willing to help you develop it and guide you toward your goals.
Can you share a bit about your undergraduate research experience and what you’ve learned from it?
I participated in the Arizona Sicily Project for the past two summers with Dr. Robert Schon and Dr. Emma Blake. The experience has allowed me to apply classroom learning—such as identifying pottery types—to real excavations. Working alongside people who are both knowledgeable and passionate has been invaluable. I also interned at the Arizona State Museum with Barbara Mills’ Silver Creek Archaeological Research Project, where I helped catalog and organize excavation materials. That internship led to a position at the repository, where I am currently assisting with collection inventory.
What skills have you gained through the major that you think will be valuable beyond college?
These opportunities have given me experience presenting research at events such as the Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity Showcase and the Arizona State Museum BARA symposium. Presenting has helped me strengthen my communication skills and develop new perspectives. More broadly, I have been able to see the full life cycle of an artifact—from excavation in the field to analysis in the lab to long-term preservation in a museum. That perspective has given me a wide range of skills and a deeper understanding of the discipline that I will carry forward after graduation.
Do you have advice for students who are curious about anthropology but unsure if it’s the right fit?
I would encourage them to explore it. The professors are exceptional—supportive, passionate and committed to their students’ success. If you are interested in how people interact with one another and with the world, anthropology offers a strong foundation. The program also provides opportunities for hands-on research locally and internationally. If you have any interest in anthropology, it’s absolutely worth pursuing
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