Being here in Türkiye has helped me understand that this experience isn’t just about building a resume, its a chance to build friendships and collaborate with people I am lucky to work with. It’s about growing as a person, overcoming challenges, and loving what I do. I would explain that the people of Gazipasa are so kind and hospitable, and it is easy to feel at home here. I would go into detail about the site and what our everyday life looks like. How at first waking up was hard, but now I don’t even think about it being early in the morning anymore. I would talk about how nice and cool it was in the morning, and how by midday the humidity had rolled in, but not to worry, because while it was hot, I did get used to the heat. I would talk about what kind of work we would do once arriving at the site, and how I learned to properly push myself in ways that won’t cause burnout. Maybe my potential employer would ask how I was able to pace myself, and I would say that it was a mixture of things. For instance, I would set personal goals for myself that day or motivate myself the way I do during tennis matches or at track meets.
I have gained so many valuable skills during my internship. I can take thorough notes and create detailed descriptions of what was done in a unit that day. I work well with a team, leading and instructing, following directions, and communicating. I take initiative, carrying crates of pottery sherds, special artifacts, and water jugs. This trip has allowed me to practice communication skills, speaking with new people, and learning different archaeological techniques and specialties. Something I was the most nervous about was the language barrier, but since working with some of the Turkish students, I have learned a few new Turkish words, and it has helped with expanding my comfort zone. I notice that everyone has a slightly different approach to archaeological practice and excavation, and it is interesting to see how little or how much each one changes. Working with Turkish peers in a Mediterranean environment makes me appreciate this opportunity even more. I get to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with people from Türkiye who make me understand the importance of the rescue excavation even more. Leadership was another important skill that I was able to strengthen during my time. I have always been good at assessing my surroundings and being able to gauge what areas need more attention, in addition to that, I can identify what needs to be worked on without being told to do it.
I would begin my interview by talking about what was found at Antiochia de Cragum, how I’d interact with my fellow interns, and what kind of knowledge was gained. I’d explain how I worked alongside other Turkish interns and archaeologists and how that was able to expand my knowledge of a Turkish site, geography, and climate. I would outline areas in which I grew, emphasizing leadership and social and cultural skills, and things that were completely new to me that I eventually learned to love (like the weather). I am excited to share my experience in Türkiye not just with future employers but also with family, friends, and future students who are also curious about archaeology.