Frankey Leggio
- Expert Role: Rookie
- Major: Human Biology
- Class: Graduate Student
- Hometown: New Orleans, Louisiana
Why is this humanitarian work important to you?
This humanitarian work is important to me because I try to give back to others in any way that I can. I am blessed to be in a position where I can be of service to others, and with this work, we can help to provide closure to the families and loved ones of missing individuals. I believe that all people should be treated with respect and are deserving of basic human rights. I hope to help create a positive impact with the Beyond Borders team this year and help families going through hardship.
What do you hope to gain from this experience?
I hope to gain a better understanding of the humanitarian crisis and of the socio-political situation along the border. Speaking and working with individuals in Brooks County will allow me to hear their accounts firsthand. I also hope to learn more about fieldwork in a forensic setting and utilize the skills I have learned in the classroom out in the field in Texas.
What are some of the biggest challenges you will face while in Texas?
I think I will face both physical and emotional challenges while in Texas. Although I might think I am used to the heat, I am not used to navigating through the harsh terrain that we will face in the field. No one truly understands a situation until they are in it, but I believe I am prepared for the challenges of the trip. I am going forward with a positive attitude because the challenges I may face in the short time I am in Texas are incomparable to the insurmountable challenges that the individuals directly affected by this humanitarian crisis face daily.
What’s one thing people probably don’t know about you until they’ve known you a long time?
I used to be a competitive dancer, and I know how to dance multiple styles of ballroom dance!
When did you know you wanted to pursue human biology as a degree, and how did you become interested in forensics?
I became interested in forensics in high school when I read an article about a forensic anthropologist who helped in the identification of a missing individual. I had never thought about a career in forensics before, but knew I wanted to pursue a career where I could help others. I decided to pursue a degree in anthropology and the more I learned about anthropology and forensic science, I discovered my interest in human biology. After receiving my bachelor’s degree in anthropology, I wanted to expand my knowledge of anatomy and the human body. I decided to attend UIndy because of the unique program, and I am happy to be here continuing my education in the field of forensics.
What advice would you give other students interested in pursing a human biology degree at UIndy?
If you are interested in pursuing a human biology degree at UIndy, reach out to a professor in the program and ask questions! UIndy has helped me discover my interests and has provided me with multiple opportunities to learn inside and out of the classroom. UIndy prepares you for future careers and sets students up for success. Decide what area of human biology is the most interesting to you and talk to a professor because they can help you make your career goals achievable.
What makes UIndy’s human biology program distinctive?
The human biology program at UIndy is so distinctive because of the abundant opportunities that are available. The program combines human biology with forensic anthropology to give a unique understanding of the field of forensic science. This program also allows for students to participate in fieldwork and humanitarian work. The UIndy human biology program prepares you for a career post-graduation and also helps students prepare for PhD programs.