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Regina Lowe earned her Bachelor of Arts in anthropology from UL Lafayette in 2020. She’s now a PhD student at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, pursuing her research interests in the archaeology of the Lower Mississippi Valley. 

Regina knew she wanted to study anthropology since her senior year of high school, and she was drawn to UL Lafayette because of the outstanding and active program. 

“I chose to study anthropology because I am interested in combining scientific techniques to understand more about human societies of the past,” Regina said. “Anthropology allows me to combine my interests in science, history, and sociology.”

Regina is focusing her studies on archeological anthropology, which aims to understand the past through material remains. 

“Studying anthropology at UL Lafayette has given me the opportunity to do archaeology in Louisiana, which I want to continue to do in my future career,” she said. 

Much of that experience came during her Louisiana Archaeology class (ANTH 440G) with Dr. Mark Rees. 

“I enjoyed my class on Louisiana Archaeology with Dr. Mark Rees, which I took as a senior. I learned about the human presence in Louisiana from the Paleoindian period through the contact period,” Regina explained.

“His class sparked my interest in the rich history of Louisiana and the archaeological work that will be able to provide information about unwritten histories.”

In addition to her coursework, Regina was actively involved in the Anthropology Society and Phi Alpha Theta. 

“Both of these provided me the opportunity to learn about my majors and engage with meaningful topics that are relevant to our society today,” she said. 

Regina’s favorite part about studying at UL Lafayette was the supportive community she found here. This support was consistent through the anthropology program. 

“They made all the difference in helping me get opportunities that have furthered my career in anthropology,” she said of the professors. “I am thankful for their advice and their willingness to work with me on research projects.”

Regina feels her experience at UL Lafayette has prepared her to pursue her career in anthropology. She’s developed an interdisciplinary and diverse skillset, giving her the ability to look at research questions from multiple perspectives.  

“Additionally, the anthropology department has helped me gain practical research skills that will help me as I continue to graduate school and into my career as an archaeologist,” she said. “I am looking forward to getting a higher degree in anthropology, which will allow me to continue to focus on doing archaeological research in Louisiana.”