Jerrys Interview
3 years ago:
“I just have one last question Ms.Yazzie,” Sigrid smiled, the expression not quite reaching their eyes feeling more like a formality than genuine.
“Yes?” Jerry smiled; she had braided her hair that morning into two braids down her back and matched the hair ties to the red shell she had on. She had never been more thankful for her years in speech and debate until she had to interview for her PhD program. She was sitting in front of THE Dr. Sigrid, who looked way younger than she thought they would. Shed read their papers on sex and gender, racial bias, and anthropological approaches to religious archaeology. This was her top choice in programs.
“Why archaeology?” they tilted their head.
“I…” She had answered this question thousands of times. Her aunties had one answer, her brothers another, “I like dirt.” what else could she say?
“I do, too; anything other than dirt?” they raised an eyebrow. Jerry couldn't help but notice the scar running from Sigrid's hairline down their cheek. She was curious about what had caused it. But now wasn't the time to think about what the scar was from; she needed to figure out an answer.
“Well,” she bit her lip, “honestly?” a breath, “there is a long history in archaeology f racism, sexism, and lack of attention to diversity. Sure, anthropology is the study of people, but a lot of it has been done by old white men, which, and this is nothing against them,” she quickly added, “is not a diverse outlook on humanity. I want to add my experiences as a queer indigenous woman to the archaeological record. The world has more to offer than a limited batch of interpretations, and I really want other girls from my culture to see themselves in science and my culture to be treated like a living culture, not just a footnote in the Long Walk in the history books.”
Sigrid smiled. The corners of her eyes crinkled.
“Thank you for your time. We will be in contact with you regarding your application.” Sigrid said. Jerry stood to leave. “But,” they both paused, “I would recommend checking real estate in the area, you never know when you may need to get an apartment, you know. It is a 5-year commitment.” They rose with more grace than Jerry was expecting and, heelyd, out of the room. Was she imagining it? Had the Doc just insinuated she was going t be accepted? Were they wearing Heelys? Had she just said all of that to a prospective advisor?
She left the building and called her mom. “Hey, Mom! I, uh, it went really well. I think I am going to be accepted.”
“That's great! We just got back to the hotel. Do you want to change before dinner?”
“Yeah, that would be great. OH! I gotta text, Nico! He wanted an update on the interview. I told her I'd get it to them after I talked to you and Dad.”
“Sure thing, just let us know when you get back, and we can get ready for dinner.”
“Love you,”
“Love you too.”
She hung up the phone and started texting her undergraduate advisor and friends. She was going to be a Ph.D. student. She just had this feeling.
Sigrid put a stack of papers on the table in front of them, “Gemima Yazzie. Were accepting her. She's mine now.”
“I knew you'd like her.” Archimedes grinned. She was their Celtic archaeologist. Archie was also part of the acceptance committee.
“You haven't even let us meet her, Sigrid!” Melody laughed. Archie didn't know it, but Sigrid was helping Melody plan her proposal. They were thinking of using the summer semester when Archie was taking some students to Ireland for a dig.
“Loose if you snooze.” they stuck their tongue out. “Besides, she’s focused on sex and gender studies and, eh, the other things that I do. I call dibs.”
“Fine, we have three more interviews today, though,” Melody stretched her arms above her head, “better prepare.”
“I’ll be ready when I get some coffee,” Sigrid responded, already starting a pot. They had a good feeling about Gemima. They were very curious what she would get up to in school.