African Studies Graduate Student Letter

For incoming graduate students, there are always numerous questions about required courses, the quality of the faculty, the resources available, travel and grant opportunities, as well as numerous other issues. Graduate student Erick, from Applied Health Sciences and African Studies, discusses his experiences in the African Studies Program that will hopefully answer some questions for incoming students.

Dear Future Students,

The wealth of opportunities, people, and resources available through the African Studies Program (ASP) at Indiana University made my decision to attend one of the easiest and best choices I’ve ever made. The faculty, degree options, and diverse student body make the program one of the best in the country and have been invaluable in making my graduate experience incredibly productive and rewarding.

The faculty represents a wide range of research and geographical areas of interest in Africa. Whether your interest is in music in Ghana, history in Swaziland, or sports in Tanzania you are sure to find likeminded and experienced faculty mentors to help guide and develop your research. I have been able to engage my interest in HIV and public health research in East Africa by taking advantage of the new joint Master of Public Health and Master of Arts in African Studies (MPH/MA) degree. Through the pursuit of a dual degree I have been able to draw on the strengths of both programs and develop a perspective that crosses disciplines. Each of the African Studies degree options allow students to tailor their graduate experience with course offerings in collaboration with a number of departments and professional schools within the university. Whichever degree option you choose you are sure to find a number of classes that fit your unique needs and interests.

In addition to the academic benefits of the African Studies Program rest assured you will be surrounded with a wonderful group of people that will positively impact your academic experience. Given the broad range of courses offered each semester you will get to know the diverse and talented group of individuals that make up the African Studies student body. These students make for multifaceted class discussions, which draw on the perspectives of the various fields of study they represent. Apart from classes you’ll have the opportunity to have socialize with your fellow students through a number of ASP sponsored events and student group activities. The Graduate Students in African Studies group and the Indiana University African Language Club host several activities throughout the semester. From foreign language fairs, African film festivals, potlucks, and social outings you are sure to make friends that share your interests and your passion for Africa.

Good luck in your graduate studies and hope to see you at Indiana,

Erick Amick

Current graduate students interested in writing for this page, please contact the African Studies Program at afrist@indiana.edu.

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