So, the large majority of you students coming on this trip are coming because you want to become an archaeologist. Personally, I came for the history of Cyprus course, but of course, was interested in maybe doing archaeology. As someone who wasn’t quite as motivated/prepared for archaeological work, I was met with some roadblocks.

My first roadblock was that of hard labor. I know I know this seems like an obvious expectation of archaeological work, but it was MORE than I was expecting. Pickaxe-ing and using a tureya is hard! It’s tiring and the heat is just pouring out from the sun making the work that much harder. It is something you get used to though, so it gets easier the longer you’re on the trip. I did notice that those with previous archaeological experience as well as those that planned on becoming an archaeologist worked a little harder. But that isn’t to say the history or other miscellaneous majors didn’t work hard as well. Some history majors on this trip have decided on becoming archaeologists!

My second roadblock was the tedious tasks. These tasks included pottery washing, baulk trimming, and sweeping. Repetitive tasks just, personally, aren’t for me. But some people found these tasks to be meditative and somewhat soothing.

I don’t think either of these things should deter you from coming on this trip. In any circumstance it will be a fun learning experience! The silver lining in all of this is that PKAP-Vigla is a site infested with discoveries just waiting to be uncovered. Every. Single. One. Of you WILL find something on your trip.

Hunter Powell