Lynda Lattke Major: Anthropology Minor: Economics Year of Graduation: 1993

Where do you live and work now?

Currently I live in London (England) and work for the National Health System

What is your occupation now?

I work as a Medical Interpreter for the Francophone African community in the London area.

What did you do immediately after graduating from UMass Boston?

I joined the Peace Corps and lived and worked in Niger for 3 years

What has been your most worthwhile professional experience so far?

I’ve learned so much in each of my professional experiences that all seem to have been extremely rewarding and therefore, worthwhile. One of them in particular was the job I had for the past 3 years working in public health projects in Africa and the Caribbean.

What are the one or two events, courses or people that stand out in your
mind from your time at UMass Boston? Please explain.

I really enjoyed the courses I took with my adviser Tim Sieber; the subjects always brought quite a bit of controversy and class discussion was quite lively. I also enjoyed the journal writing since it was an opportunity for reflection. As for my classmates at UMass Boston, I met my lifelong friends!

Has studying anthropology impacted your perspective (personally,
professionally, or other)? If so, how?

I believe it has impacted me at all levels. Studying Anthropology has helped me be aware of my own assumptions about other people and provided me with the tools to bridge cultural gaps.

Is there a piece of advice you wish someone had offered you while still an
undergraduate student at UMass?

Luckily not! I think I had very good guidance while I was an undergraduate student.

Any other comments?

I loved my time at UMass Boston because it really met my needs; I was working while I was studying and met other people who were doing the same. Given my diverse background, I appreciated the ethnic diversity at the University. Last but not least, the professors were really caring and the courses challenging.