Michelle Zheng
Major: Anthropology and Health Promotion and Disease
Email: mjzheng@usc.edu
Ask Me About: I am a second year student, pursuing degrees in Anthropology and Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. My current interests include health behavior approaches to HIV/AIDS and STDs, and the social impact of the 2028 Olympics in LA, especially on homelessness and redevelopment. Anthropology inspires me to tackle public health issues within cultural contexts, emphasizing nuance and understanding over simplistic solutions. Ask me about getting two degrees, what classes USC has to offer, or my journey to Anthropology!
Advice: For undergraduates considering an anthropology major or minor, don’t hesitate to use your voice and drive discussions. Many early classes are filled with non-majors fulfilling GE requirements, so your engagement can elevate the dialogue and enrich your experience. While anthropology’s career path may feel unclear, its broad scope is one of its greatest strengths, offering critical thinking tools and cultural frameworks essential for understanding and connecting with others. These skills prepare you for diverse careers and foster a socially aware perspective. Embrace the uncertainty—it’s where anthropology’s unique value lies, teaching you to approach the world with nuance and compassion. Whether your interests lie in health, justice, or understanding human behavior, anthropology equips you to create meaningful change across any field.