Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and lush landscapes of Pohnpei, Micronesia’s “Garden Island,” through this hands-on archaeology field school. Formed by an extinct shield volcano and surrounded by pristine reefs, Pohnpei offers a stunning setting to explore ancient food production systems and landscape management practices. Building on decades of research, including recent LiDAR imaging that has uncovered hidden features beneath the island’s dense vegetation, you’ll engage in fieldwork such as pedestrian surveys, excavations, mapping, and sample collection. You’ll also have the opportunity to collaborate closely with local communities, contributing to meaningful research that deepens our understanding of Pohnpei’s agricultural history and its connection to the island’s chiefly social systems. Outside of fieldwork, enjoy enriching experiences like visiting cultural heritage sites, sampling local foods, and exploring the island’s natural beauty through activities like swimming and snorkeling around the vibrant coral reefs.

Field school highlights:

• Understand the intersection of archaeology, ecology, and anthropology as you study how ancient Pohnpeian societies shaped and adapted to their environment over millennia.
• Work closely with Pohnpeian communities, gaining insight into the island’s traditions and contemporary life while contributing to meaningful research
• Explore the cultural and natural wonders of Micronesia, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Nan Madol, the Pohnpaid petroglyphs, and Sokehs Rock