I can’t believe I am going to do this.
Is this your first thought as well? Lucky for you, you aren’t alone. Trust me I know the feeling. Deciding to go to a field school can be overwhelming. When I decided to attend my very first field school I was both excited and nervous. Just thinking about the time I would spend sitting down on the plane (11 hours to be exact) and going across the world for the very first time intimidated me. But on the other hand, I imagined myself in a big green grassy field standing next to the ruins of an old stone church ready to start my day in Ireland. It is perfectly normal to feel all types of emotions, especially when you are traveling so far away and alone for the very first time. In this blog, I hope to provide you with 10 helpful tips to maximize your field experience.
- Talk to family and friends
Before traveling, talk to your family and friends about your worries. Venting to them can be a helpful way to express any emotions or concerns you may have about traveling and participating in your field school.
2. Distract yourself
Finding ways to make your plane ride feel shorter is a good way to distract yourself. Take advantage of the movies, shows, and music on the plane. Reading a book or talking to the person next to you can make time fly by.
3. Pack lightly
It can be difficult to not take your whole closet with you when you travel, but it is important to not overpack. Instead pack only what you need, especially, if you are thinking about bringing gifts back to your family and friends.
4. Read the assigned readings
Even though it may be obvious it is important to read the material assigned by the field directors to understand the history and cultural significance of archaeological sites.
5. Make new friends
Be open to meeting new people not only in your field school but people in your community as well. Try not to get stuck in your own little bubble – take advantage that you are in a new country – experience something new.
6. Develop relationships with the field directors
Make the most of your field school experience and take advantage of the archaeologists you are working with. If you are interested in the same area of study as the archaeologists you are working with, take the time to develop a relationship with them.
7. Do not be afraid to ask questions
Take advantage of the time you spend in the field school to ask questions about future careers in archaeology, archaeological methods, and research.
8. Mistakes happen
Taking elevations at Clonoghill Castle
Learning about archaeology can be hard especially if it is your first time attending a field school. Do not be hard on yourself if you do not understand the archaeological methods being taught. Try to keep an open mind and be open to practice and learning.
9. Let your body rest
Archaeology can be very laborious during excavation. Be sure to go at your own pace. Even though there may be others who work at a faster pace than you, remember not to overwork yourself. Take breaks when necessary and give your body the proper rest it deserves.
10. Plan trips if possible
Maximize your time in the country by taking advantage of your free time to travel to nearby areas. Going to a new country is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I would recommend it if it is possible to plan trips on the weekend with friends or even solo.
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May 13, 2025
