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Anthropologists study people and primates (such as chimps), researching their cultural, physical, and social development over time. Archaeologists investigate history by finding and studying the remains and objects a society leaves behind.
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Are You Ready To...?
Write reports under strict deadlines
Spend hours analyzing data and crunching numbers
Learn more at the websites of the American Anthropological Association or the Archaeological Institute of America
Juggle teaching and research if you’re a professor
Travel to and live in unfamiliar cultures
Do tough physical work in harsh weather at a dig or building site
Work both independently and as part of a team
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It Helps to Be...
Curious, creative, patient, analytical, and open-minded. You’ll need good writing and speaking skills to help people understand the results of your research.
Make High School Count
Work hard in all of your classes. You will need a lot of different skills and will use what you learn in English, social studies, math, science, and foreign languages.
Make the most of research assignments. Learn the best ways to find and organize information.
Look for a summer job or internship at a local museum, library, historic site, or historical society.
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Did You Know?
Anthropologists can help businesses decide how best to sell their products. They can also help politicians decide how best to attract voters.
Outlook
Government economists expect jobs for anthropologists and archaeologists to grow as fast as the average for all careers through 2012.
Expect a lot of competition for university faculty positions since there are so many qualified people. On the other hand, job opportunities in other areas, such as business, public policy, and government, should continue to grow.
