Ben graduated in 2022 and is now a Senior Site Assistant in archaeological geophysics while also doing a master’s degree. The archaeological theories and methods he learned at Southampton continue to inform his work and research today.
Impressed from the open day onwards
I remember opening the brochure during the first talk of the open day at Southampton and instantly being amazed at the range of modules and opportunities. I could study anything from the history of apocalyptic thought to maritime archaeology to the archaeology of the Abbasid Caliphate.
The supportiveness of the staff shone in a way I had not seen at other universities. This was borne out during my degree and beyond. With ongoing mentorship and support from the faculty, I’ve grown more confident in my abilities and developed advanced skills that enhance my employment prospects.
Equipped for career success
I really enjoyed gaining a range of highly practical skills which have propelled my archaeological career. I learned how to excavate and record archaeological features, use geophysical surveying equipment such as ground penetrating radar, and a range of innovative techniques, such as laser scanning and geographic information systems mapping and analysis.
I also took the Introduction to Scientific Diving module, which kicked off a love of diving that continues to this day.
Gaining hands-on experience
I took part in two field schools during my degree. One was on the Avenue Campus, where I got to excavate a Second World War air raid trench. The other was in the Avebury World Heritage Site, where we discovered amazing archaeology that is advancing archaeological understanding of the landscape.
This experience was invaluable when I entered the job market. I applied for a graduate traineeship in archaeological excavation with one of the UK’s biggest commercial archaeology firms. The interviewers were impressed that I had already done months of archaeological fieldwork, and this was directly cited as the reason I was offered the role.
Becoming an archaeologist and researcher
I’m currently working as a Senior Site Assistant in archaeological geophysics while doing an MSc in Digital Archaeology.
Since graduating, I have also been fortunate enough to join summer excavations of the Roman town of Melite in Malta, and I’ve continued to work with Southampton’s archaeology department at their Avebury excavations, working my way up to supervisor level at both sites.
These opportunities have been amazing sources of development for me, allowing me to hone my leadership skills, receive incredible mentorship, and meet brilliant people every year.
My advice for prospective archaeology students: take every opportunity you’re presented with! Attend departmental seminars and lectures, join societies, go on the field trips. They are consistently incredible and you’ll gain new skills, friends, and knowledge from them.
Ben
