According to Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), approximately 81,096 military personnel remain unaccounted for. Allison Thomson wants to change that.
Thomson, senior anthropology undergraduate at Michigan State University (MSU), was selected for an internship with the DPAA in Omaha, Nebraska. Out of 135 applications, Thomson was one of six students selected.
“I was incredibly excited because I knew it was competitive, but it will be a great opportunity and provide me with valuable experience,” Thomson said.
DPAA works to identify the thousands of missing military personnel by collaborating with military members, historians, life support specialists, language interpreters, anthropologists, archaeologists, DNA specialists and others to assist in making a positive identification.
Dr. Joe Hefner, associate professor of forensic anthropology for MSU’s Department of Anthropology said he couldn’t be prouder to hear Thomson was selected.
“As a mentor and educator, seeing a student like Allison earn such a competitive internship is both a proud moment and a testament to her hard work and dedication,” Hefner said. “I know this is going to be a transformative experience for her.”
Before joining MSU, Hefner was the Forensic Anthropology Laboratory Manager for the DPAA.
“Interns at the DPAA are not only exposed to cutting-edge forensic anthropology, but they also gain an understanding of the historical, cultural, and ethical significance of identification work in a military setting,” Hefner said. “This opportunity will help Allison develop her technical skills, broaden her understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of forensic anthropology and build connections with professionals in this small field.”
Thomson said she is excited about the hands-on experience, especially developing skills in osteology and archival work.
“Having access to the world’s largest forensic anthropology lab and their resources will be amazing for understanding different approaches in the field and learning from experts through real-world experience,” she said.
Thomson will be graduating this spring after completing her degree in three years. This coming fall she will be attending graduate school in London, England at University College London working toward a masters in anthropology.
Currently, Thomson is in her second year of serving as the president of the Undergraduate Anthropology Club and as the department of anthropology’s representative on the Dean’s Student Advisory Council within the college of social science. Additionally, she is working in both the bioarchaeology and forensic anthropology labs on campus. For the past two summers, Thomson has traveled internationally participating in the Belize Archaeology Field School and London Forensic Study Abroad program.
“MSU and the Department of Anthropology have so many resources,” Thomson said. “The faculty genuinely want you to succeed and get involved in everything, so it’s important not to be afraid to reach out.”
Thomson expressed how grateful she was for the faculty, graduate students and others who have supported her journey at MSU.
“Many people encouraged me to take advantage of various opportunities, and those experiences have helped me get to where I am today,” she said.