Why do You Want to be an Archaeologist?

The past few weeks, I have been spending some time investigating the fields of Anthropology, meaning the opportunities after I go through 6 years of schooling.

I have visited several forums including Archaeology fieldwork and Historum and I have listened to what other students of Archaeology have to say about the field after they graduate.

The consensus seems to be if you really love the field of Archaeology and Anthropology, and money is really not an issue, than you're making the right choice. In addition, it seems that the more field experience you have and the more years of teaching in a classroom you have under your belt, you're much more likely to secure a well paying position.

In my opinion, your life should be spent doing something you really love, and I think that's why I chose this field. Of course, I had visions of Indiana Jones and me in one of those stylish hats with a whip fashioned at my side. That's besides the point. lol

So what have I learned over the past few weeks?

• Find some field work, no matter what it is. Experience is the key here, and if you're not sure about the sub-field you want to study, signing up for different field opportunities will help you decide.

• Stay abrupt to the latest news. Everyday, I visit sites all around the web looking for news about discoveries. So where do you look?

• Research the best archaeological programs around the country. Don't just settle for a school nearby because money may be an issue. There are so many grants, scholarships, and funds available for everyone that wants to go to school. Make the right choice for you and pick a school that specializes in a field of study that you are interested in. There are no excuses. Put your time in and you'll find the right fit.

• Be willing to travel. This is another issue that I have been seeing with archaeologists that complain that there is no work. Understandably, people do have kids, but this is a field that requires you to travel. You have to make arrangements and you have to make a conscience decision about whether you can be successful while maintaining a family. There are exceptions and I'm sure many of you have had personal experiences with this.

If you still have questions, check out my Beginner's Guide To A Career in Anthropology and Archeology | Guide To Archaeology and Anthropology Graduate School 101 | 30 Reasons Why You Should Become An Archaeologist | Best Graduate and Undergraduate Schools for Anthropology and Archaeology  

What is it about Archaeology that speaks to you? And what sacrifices have you made to be an Archaeologist?