My name is Heather McDonald and I am a non-Native graduating senior in
Anthropology (due to the lack of a Native Studies major) at the University
of Massachusetts. I am brand new to Native-Net and am very excited about it!
At this moment, my interests are gearing towards Native education,
Health, film and various other things...I have been taking whatever courses
are offered here which would fit in a Native Studies major, and I am glad to
be graduating, because I am quickley running out of things which fit into
that category. This is one of the major problems with this University, we have
a very large gap when it comes to Native recruiting and funding.
I was thinking about going straight on the Graduate school, but I am
weary of always having my nose in a book and I feel like, perhaps I can be more
helpful doing something, so I am also in the process of searching for a job
somewhere west of the Mississippi (preferably). I had some experience last
summer working at a Native American museum in Harvard, Ma., and enjoyed the
idea of working with children and breaking down common stereotypes, although
the museum itself was chock full of problems. At any rate, if any one knows of
anyone I might contact, either for volunteer or paid work starting the
beginnning of the summer, please let me know. Right now I just feel like I
need a change and need to get out and experience things a little more hands-on.
Last semester I did some research on the portrayal of Native Americans
in children's literature throughout the last three decades and this issue of
common stereotypes has become another interest for me. I am very interested by
the means which these stereotypes originated.
I am looking forward to becoming involved here!
Thanks!
Heather