Paula "Pimm" Tripp-Allen

About Paula "Pimm"

Why did you choose this program?

I was actually on a design-your-own major track taking many classes including Native American Studies, Sociology, and ITEPP-related classes when the NAS Program got approved, so I worked with them to consolidate my coursework and I was able to graduate in one of the first classes of this NAS program.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

It provided me with not only the academic knowledge that helped to create a foundation for my career, but it also provided me with a community that would remain an important connection for me throughout my career. I have worked for and with Tribal communities in the fields of health, education, arts/culture, and philanthropy for over two decades, and during that time I continued to find that the connections I made at Cal Poly Humboldt and in the Native American Studies and ITEPP Programs continue to be some of my strongest allies across Indian Country.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

The thoughtful and rich conversations about all things related to Native American Studies with some of my favorite classes including my Native Literature, Native Art, and Indigenous Language classes.

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?

That I believe this is the best Native American Studies program in the state because its history includes a grassroots effort that was led by and continues to include leadership by Native People. This program includes thoughtful, rigorous, and cutting-edge thinking around issues impacting Indigenous People. The program has developed strong inter-disciplinary partnerships across the campus which creates an environment where students have the opportunity to become educated about NAS-specific issues and understand more broadly and deeply how these issues relate to and are integrated with studies in the sciences, social sciences, professional studies, and the arts. Cal Poly Humboldt is also home to two outstanding Native Support Programs, a Food Sovereignty Lab, and the only Native Arts Gallery in the CSU system, making it a unique and outstanding campus for Tribal students in particular, and all students interested in this field of study.