MA in Anthropology

Hailey Celeste Schultheiss, 2026

Degree: MA in Anthropology

I chose George Mason University for its exceptional faculty and research, and I knew I wanted the opportunity to learn from and work alongside them.

My area of study is biological anthropology, which I chose during my undergraduate studies at Indiana University. My interest in this really started with my dad, who worked as a funeral director and coroner. Growing up, I heard a lot of his stories, and they made me very curious about death, the body, mortuary practices, and the kinds of questions we explore in biological anthropology—specifically bioarcheology. These topics always fascinated me, but I didn’t see them as something I could actually turn into a career. I decided to major in anthropology in undergrad and thought I would become a cultural anthropologist, but all of that changed once I took forensic anthropology and osteology. I completely fell in love with the field, and that’s when I realized this is what I wanted to do, if I could find a way to make it work.

For my thesis, I examined biological stress in two indigenous Muchik communities on the north coast of Peru during the Spanish Colonial period. I was really interested in how large-scale processes like colonialism, disease, and social disruption actually get reflected in the human body/skeleton, especially during childhood. To do that, I used dental fluctuating asymmetry (DFA), which is a way to measure tiny differences between the left and right sides of teeth. Those small differences can reflect developmental instability and thus serve as a proxy for stress experienced while growing up, or, more specifically, while the teeth themselves are developing. So not only did I want to look at how factors like colonialism impact growth and development, but I also wanted to compare levels of fluctuating asymmetry between two communities with very different colonial realities.

Most impactful experience: So many of my experiences were impactful in different ways. All my classes played a huge role in shaping my knowledge of the field, but I think the most meaningful experience for me personally was working as a graduate teaching assistant and getting the chance to step into an instructor role for undergraduate biological anthropology courses. That experience really solidified what I want to do moving forward, not just as a researcher, but as someone who teaches and mentors students. Being able to introduce students to a field I care so much about, and seeing their excitement and curiosity grow, is honestly one of the most rewarding things I’ve experienced. As a first-generation college student at both the undergraduate and graduate level, supporting students who are navigating this world for the first time is something that means a lot to me. I know how overwhelming it can feel, so being in a position to help guide and encourage others has been incredibly important and fulfilling.

Favorite George Mason memory: Another really tough question; George Mason University has practically been my entire life for the last two years. Any day I was given a sweet treat randomly was a good day, but there were many firsts here. Picking up and seeing my first conference poster was pretty unforgettable.

Advice for future George Mason graduate students: I'll start by saying that I completely understand why someone may feel hesitant about joining a graduate program, especially if no one in your life has gone through it and you’re not sure where to turn for advice or support. My biggest piece of advice would be if you’re truly passionate about what you’re studying, follow that. Passion and dedication can carry you through a lot. At the same time, it is important to be honest with yourself. There will be tough days; sometimes tough weeks. Graduate school is not easy. Sometimes you will have to take things one day at a time, maybe even one hour at a time, and that is OK. And when you start to feel overwhelmed, like you're running out of time or don't even know where to start, give yourself a reset. Even just 30 minutes to do something that calms you down, whether it's taking a walk, breathing exercises, or sitting in the sunshine (if the weather permits). Taking that break for yourself will make a huge difference when you come back to your work. I would also say to take advantage of every opportunity you are given. Build strong relationships with your professors and the people in your program, and do not be afraid to share your ideas. And most importantly, ask questions. If there is something you want to do, go for it. The worst that can happen is someone says no, but if you never ask, you will never know.

Plans after graduation: After graduation, I will begin my PhD in Biological Anthropology at the University of Arkansas. I'm really excited to continue my research on fluctuating asymmetry and build on what I started here with my thesis. I also hope to keep working with undergraduate students, since teaching and mentoring have become such an important part of what I want to do moving forward.