The idea of archaeology often conjures images of Indiana Jones-style adventures. While still thrilling, real-world archaeology often involves more digging, less danger, and definitely no running away from giant boulders.
In the real world, the path to becoming an archaeologist is rigorous and intensely competitive. But what if you could get a significant head start, even before college?
Read on to find out why early field experience is crucial for your education and career and how you could join a real archaeological dig with no prior experience.
There are several barriers to gaining archaeology experience
Archaeology is a demanding scientific discipline. Digging up and identifying history is awesome, but to be successful, you need academic success, physical stamina, and specialized practical skills. That makes it an incredibly competitive field.
Firstly, there's the issue of experience — entry-level jobs often require prior field experience, yet it’s hard to get that experience without a job. Top graduate programs and archaeology firms almost always require you to have participated in accredited field schools or to have joined volunteer archaeology digs. Without that hands-on time surrounded by experts, even a stellar academic record might not cut it.
Secondly, there is a real cost barrier. Many high-quality archaeological field schools and digs can be expensive, limiting access for many aspiring students. This means that early experience, while vital, often comes with a hefty price tag, making it harder for a diverse range of students to enter the field.
Lastly, getting experience on a real dig can be hard to find and organize, often involving international travel and logistical nightmares. You might need to find transport from the airport to remote parts of a new country, find safe and reliable accommodation, and try to prepare tasty, balanced meals in a different cuisine.
Ultimately, applying to college or jobs in archaeology is about skills, not just grades. Employers in archaeology often divide graduates into two groups: those who can dig, and those who can't.
Academic knowledge is essential, but it pales in comparison to the practical skills gained through real-world excavation, recording, and analysis. This is why gaining tangible experience is your key to success.
The benefits of archaeology experience for college applications
Given these challenges, starting the process as a high school student isn't just a bonus, it’s essential.
The main reason for getting archaeology experience as a teen is to maximize your college applications. Demonstrating a serious, early commitment to archaeology through genuine field experience will make your application stand out to competitive college programs.
It shows initiative and a commitment to your career path, confirming your interest before you spend four years on a degree.
Beyond archaeology, you'll build an invaluable transferable skill stack. Working on a dig will hone your teamwork, problem-solving under pressure, resilience in challenging conditions, and meticulous attention to detail. These skills are vital for any academic or professional career, making this experience wholly worthwhile no matter where your path leads.
Finally, joining an international dig is fun, and it helps to develop your global mindset. Stepping into a different culture not only deepens your understanding of human history but also fosters cultural empathy, adaptability, communication, and the ability to collaborate in diverse teams.
Travel itself is an important learning opportunity that you could never get in a classroom.
How to get involved with archaeology as a teen
So, how do you get this crucial head start? Get all the skills and real experience on our Archaeology Volunteering for Teens in Peru program.
This program is specifically designed for high school students aged 15 to 18, offering a safe, structured, and educational experience on a real archaeological dig. Crucially, you do not need any experience to volunteer on this archaeology project and dig site.
As an archaeological excavation volunteer, you’ll get hands-on experience working alongside professional archaeologists on genuine excavations in the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas. You’ll be involved in everything from attending practical workshops to cleaning and classifying artifacts. This is real work that contributes to real research.
All our High School Programs are designed with safety and support at their core. We provide 24/7 supervision, vetted accommodation, and dedicated staff and transport in destination, so you can relax and focus entirely on learning.
Beyond the dig site, you’ll get the chance to fully immerse in the culture of Peru, one of the most archaeologically rich countries in the world. Learn basic Spanish phrases, explore local markets, and visit iconic sites like Machu Picchu, all while contributing to the preservation of ancient Inca heritage.
Crucially, you'll also learn directly from experienced archaeologists and make lifelong friends with other teens from around the world. You’ll make incredible memories and share the adventure with friends that will last a lifetime.
Get the archaeology experience you need
The field of archaeology is competitive, but it's also incredibly rewarding for those with the passion and the experience needed to break in. For high school students, getting genuine, hands-on field experience early is your most powerful tool for college applications and future career success.
Stop dreaming about history and start discovering it. Get in touch with a Project Expert today to ask any questions, find out more about the project, and take the first step towards a successful career in archaeology.
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