Each semester, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at George Mason University recognizes some of their most outstanding graduating students. Honors College Spring 2024 graduate Amanda Magpiong was nominated by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology for her academic achievements and contributions.
What was the most impactful class you took in your major?
Intro to Biological Anthropology with Dr. Rick Smith, it changed my life. Dr. Smith has been the best mentor and been in my corner since that class. He has coached me through research, 2 conference presentations, and helped me land internships and jobs even outside of anthropology.
What activities were you involved in during your time at Mason that impacted you?
Clubs: President of Patriot PIRG helped launch Generation Action, President of Club Softball. Research: anthropology research for two years, with funding help through OSCAR. Internships: Africa Unite (Cape Town, South Africa, through Mason living abroad for two months) and with a Congressman from Philadelphia on Capitol Hill. They have all been amazing and my time abroad was life changing.
What is your most memorable “Mason moment?”
The feeling of rebuilding a group of girls into a real softball team watching them all become friends and play as one.
As you are reflecting on your time at Mason, what is one piece of advice you would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey?
Take EVERY opportunity that you can, you won't regret it.
What is your next step after graduation? What are your future plans?
Possibly to work in politics in D.C. or a PhD program.