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What is processual archaeology?

What can I do with my degree in Anthropology/Archaeology?

  • Hello, I have a question that I would love to get some insight on, that is what the heck can I do with my degree in anthropology/archaeology. I'm currently set to graduate with my degree in anthropology in a few short months and I'm having what would probably be defined best as an anxiety attack. I have no idea what I'm going to do when I graduate, I mean I know that I can go to graduate school, but I think I want some time to ponder that, and while I'm pondering it I would like to work off some of that $50,000+ money I have in debts from college. I hear that contract archaeology pays well but that would mean I would be moving quite frequently and with the serious relationship that I am in now that is not really applicable to me. I also hear that straying away from anthropology and working at insurace companies and getting a managment or research position pays well too, but I hav no idea about going about applying for those. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

  • Answer:

    I've been working as a CRM archaeologist for almost two years now, and it is a hard life (that's the contract stuff you mentioned). However, if it helps, you do have some control over where you end up, just because you can apply only in areas you want to go. Distance becomes a very different concept when you're a shovelbum, and you get nice, long weekends (most places work 8 days on/6 days off or 10 on/4 off). A lot of places will keep you on past your original project if they like you and they have the work. And some projects, most notably casino projects, last freakin' forever. It may not be the life for you, and it's certainly tough on relationships. If nothing else, it will be hella easy to find a temporary job when you graduate to get you past the first couple of months. The pay is not bad, either, although you will quickly become bitter at the construction workers, who get paid twice as much, get health insurance, and have more safety signs than you.

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I know this really isn't an answer, but have you considered a non-profit internship or stint in the Peace Corps? Both are great ways to explore another country and give yourself some time to mull it over. Also, out-of-the US experience would look good on a resume. I know it won't pay off your debts, but I bet they would defer your loans until you figure out what you really want to do. Wish I could help you out more... I have a B.A. in anthro and am now a stay-at-home mom!

Shannon E

Don't you think you should have thought about this before spending all this time and money...

heywood

Not too much. A bachelor's degree in anthropology or archeology will not give you much. For archeology, You can work with a private cultural resource management company, but don't exect to make more than $30,000 per year. If you get some GPS device training, you can be paid a bit more. But expect hard work, and go from company to company across the usa.

Jim Z

Go talk to someone in the counseling office at school or do a search on "anthropology jobs" and see what happens. I think I'd go to a headhunter and have them help you with a resume. You can post your resume on www.monster.com.

Darby

I graduated in May of 2006 with an Anthropology degree and I'm now working as an Orthopaedic clinical research coordinator - not really related to Anthropology but it's a great job nonetheless.

maryanndertal

The Man In The Box

Don't know if you are in the U.S. or not, but try applying to the Smithsonian, National Geographic or the United Nations. They sometimes need people with your education. At the least, someone at one of those facilities might be able to point you in the right direction!

crazzybrunette62

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