In the Trenches

Fieldwork became a cornerstone of my education, providing immersive experiences that textbooks could never replicate. From excavating in Transylvania to participating in a field school in Greece, each excavation unearthed not just artifacts but also a deeper understanding of past societies.

Hamilton College Archaeological Field School (Summer 2022)

Through Hamilton College I had the opportunity to embark on my first archaeological dig, marking a pivotal moment in my academic journey. At the Hamilton College Archaeological Field School, I along with 11 other students participated in comprehensive excavations at two historical houses in upstate New York, contributing valuable insights into the region’s historical context. This hands-on experience allowed me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, honing my skills in artifact identification, documentation, and excavation procedures. The field school was a transformative experience that provided me with a robust foundation in practical excavation techniques and advanced archaeological survey methods. Working alongside experienced archaeologists and fellow students, I gained invaluable insights into the intricacies of archaeological fieldwork, from setting up excavation grids to meticulously recording excavation layers. This immersive learning environment not only enhanced my research capabilities but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the meticulousness and attention to detail required in archaeological practice. Overall, my participation in the Hamilton College Archaeological Field School was a formative experience that solidified my dedication to pursuing a career in archaeology.

Mortuary Archaeology of the Râmeț Bronze Age Landscape (MARBAL) Project (Summer 2023) 

In Transylvania, Romania, I participated in an ongoing collaborative research project exploring inequality and identity in Transylvanian mining landscapes at the Early Bronze Age cemetery site Râmeţ. My role involved the excavation, screening, and documentation of artifacts and features unearthed at the site, ensuring accurate provenience records for shared research purposes. Collaborating with fellow archaeologists and local community members, I gained insights into the socio-economic dynamics and cultural heritage preservation efforts in the region. This project underscored the ethical dimensions of archaeological practice, highlighting the importance of meticulous documentation and community engagement in preserving cultural heritage.

Voula Field School (Winter 2024) 

Participating in the Voula Field School in Athens, Greece marked a significant milestone as my first excavation in the field of classical archaeology. The excavations at the Aixonidai Halai, one of the ancient municipalities on the coast of ancient Attica, was a profound immersion into the field of classical archaeology. Through lectures in classrooms, archaeological sites, and museums, we not only learned about the artifacts and biological materials typically encountered in archaeological digs but also gained insights into the broader context of classical archaeology. Understanding the methodology of conducting archaeological research in Athens, from identifying and dating artifacts to cataloging findings, was just one aspect of this rich learning experience. We also explored excavation techniques, stratigraphy, artifact conservation, and the historical and cultural contexts of the sites we excavated, all of which contributed to a deeper understanding of classical archaeology as a discipline. This hands-on experience refined my technical excavation skills and deepened my appreciation for the complexities of archaeological research.

Pompeii Project I.14 (Summer 2024)

Working on the Pompeii I.14 Project was an unforgettable experience that blended learning, teamwork, and the excitement of hands-on discovery. Alongside students from various universities, I helped excavate a Roman house, providing a real glimpse into life in ancient Pompeii. Every day was filled with digging, carefully brushing away layers of history, and collaborating with my peers to document artifacts. The camaraderie we built over long days in the field—whether we were uncovering a new context or piecing together fragments of pottery—made the hard work rewarding. Outside the trench, we’d often gather to reflect on our discoveries, share theories, and learn from each other’s perspectives.

Being part of this project wasn’t just about excavating an ancient city; it was about connecting with fellow students who shared my passion for archaeology. We worked together to deepen our understanding of ancient Roman life and refine our excavation skills while also creating strong bonds. This experience not only solidified my commitment to archaeology but also showed me how much I enjoy the collaborative aspect of fieldwork. The Pompeii Project was pivotal in growing my love for the field, sparking an even stronger desire to explore the past through archaeology.

My fieldwork experiences, spanning from New York to Greece, have been transformative, deepening my understanding of archaeology and igniting my passion for uncovering the past. Each excavation provided unique insights into ancient societies and the complexities of archaeological practice, shaping me into a more skilled and knowledgeable researcher.

For those venturing into similar endeavors, I encourage embracing every opportunity to engage directly with archaeological sites and artifacts. The hands-on learning and immersive experiences are invaluable, offering a profound understanding of ancient civilizations and the intricacies of archaeological work.