I went into this archology field school experience expecting to learn the basics of archaeology and conclude if its a field I would want to peruse or not. I expected to learn basic archology excavation skills. Which I have, I now know how to use a trowel, level, type soil, think in a 3d locus space and so many other skills practical to archaeology. I also have been fortunate enough to work with Liz to learn the basics of theodolite surveying and measuring. The readings we have done taught me about nog only archaeology but the areas of knowledge that interact with it such as geology and politics. These are all practical skills I could put on my resume for future archology related applications.
However what skills have I learned that could be beneficial outside of archaeology? I have improved many basic skills such as team working, and communication. I also have gained an invaluable skill: knowing my own limits. Working at the site made me understand my physical limits more and when to push my self versus when to rest. And it more importantly allowed me to understand my social and mental limits more. Also from living in the Turkish culture I have gained the ability to go with the flow more and adapt to a more last minute schedule. Working in my unit and our area as a whole has challenged me to think critically and in a 3d manor. A major element of what I have learned in acknowledging my biases, and expiernces but still using them to see the world in my own way and provide my own perspective to the area I worked at as a whole. My time in Turkey really emphasized the message that everybody comes from a different background, and that makes every person invaluable.A lesson I believe any work place or social setting could benefit from.
