The first thing you need to know about this internship is that the work is hard. There is no way around how difficult the work is, and there is nothing you can do to prepare for it. However, it is entirely worth it. I am a person that HATES the heat and humidity. I don’t care for being outdoors too much and hard labor is not my strong suit. I chose to do this internship despite all of these things because I love history, working with other people, and traveling and I wanted to create my own historical research and I am so glad I made that choice. Every day was amazing and despite the intensity of the work, I grew to love it. I loved the people, the place, the food, and everything else about Gazipaşa. Bringing sunscreen, bandaids, and bandanas are a must in addition to actually doing the assigned readings; you will be prepared and get so much more out of the experience! The food is amazing, and I highly recommend getting mercimek and trying everything else offered. Definitely try ayran multiple times. I was not a fan the first time but now I love it. Going to Pirate Cove at least once is also absolutely necessary! The trek up and down the hill is not a fun one (if I’m being generous) but it is completely worth it; make sure to cover yourself in the green clay for a free spa treatment and a great beach look. There is lots and lots of walking in Gazipaşa, so pack comfy shoes (!!!). I would also recommend learning some basic Turkish words and phrases before coming.
I have learned so many things during my time in Türkiye, but one that sticks out to me is how important ethics are in archaeology. It’s hard to really grasp how important thorough, respectful archaeological practices are until being in the field. You are in charge of telling someone’s story; human beings once inhabited the space you are digging up and you are finding their personal tools, belongings, and even their remains. Treating your unit and whatever it may contain with respect is the most important aspect of archaeology, in my opinion.
The most memorable part of my experience was making new friends. I was expecting to become closer with my fellow St. Olaf students, but I was not expecting to become lifelong friends with them as well as the Turkish students. I have had such good experiences with everyone involved, and I plan on staying in touch with the Turkish students I met as well. I also loved doing yoga on the terrace with my classmates, site leaders, and professor!
This experience is truly hard to put into words. I loved every moment in Türkiye, and I would do it all over again in an instant. The food, the people, and the work were all amazing and I already miss it. A year ago I could never have imagined myself in this position but I am so thankful for my experiences abroad. I feel connected to the work I did there and feel like a real archaeologist. Like I said before, in the field you are telling someone’s story; you are excavating all they have ever known. As a history and art history major, this hands-on experience has given me a new definition of history and ethics. I feel thankful and connected to the people that inhabited the land thousands of years ago that we had the opportunity to excavate; my work has put into perspective that we are all human, we are all connected, and we will continue to be forever.
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