The Alcohol, Drugs, and Tobacco Study Group is proud to announce a new feature on the website: student profiles! We envision these profiles as a way for the ADTSG membership to become acquainted with the next generation of anthropologists of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.  In this vein, each profile will introduce one graduate or undergraduate student to the group by asking him or her a series of questions related to his/her background and career aspirations in this field.

To kick off this new feature, we are profiling Breanne Casper, ADTSG’s new Student Liaison. Breanne is a senior at Michigan State University who is majoring in anthropology and cognitive science.

Why did you choose to study anthropology?

Breanne:  I chose to study anthropology after my fist class as an undergraduate. It was in this class that I came to understand anthropology as a unique way to study the world, and how it aligned with my passion for understanding people, medicine, and neuroscience. It was also during this class that I was introduced to Taz Daniels (former ADTSG Chair), and got involved with the anthropological study of drugs.

Why are you interested in alcohol, drugs, and tobacco research?

Breanne: After joining Taz’s research team, I found a passion for learning about drug use and addiction.  Over time my interests have expanded from studying prescription stimulants to studying Americas “war on drugs”, alcoholism, and addiction in general.

What do you hope to do after you graduate?

Breanne: After graduation in May 2017, I hope to attend graduate school and pursue a Ph.D. in Applied or Medical Anthropology.  I want to focus specifically on addiction and neuroanthropology.

If you are a student and would like to be profiled for the ADTSG website, please contact Breanne Casper at casperb1@msu.edu for more information!