Close
Four Institute of Archaeology students have just started their placement year with ASE. Let’s find out a little more about them and what they’re looking forward to over the next twelve months. Meet Solomon, who has a particular interest in computational archaeology like GIS.
What archaeological experience do you have?
Over the last 2 years I have been on three excavations and two survey projects. The first two excavations I was involved with took place in West Sussex with the most notable being the first season of investigation for a Roman temple.
Recently, I went to a project in Turkmenistan, the site was a medieval town, complete with a mosque.
This summer’s survey project I took part in took place on the Greek island of Chios, and involved field walking and the recording of surface finds.
Do you have a favourite period/artefact type/archaeological specialism?
I am quite open about the period I study. However, I have always been interested in ancient Mesopotamia. This interest has recently developed into research about, and a potential dissertation topic relating to, the threats that cultural heritage faces in Iraq.
I wouldn’t say I have a favourite artefact type; however, I was fortunate to come across two Roman coins whilst on my first excavation which was very exciting. I’ve since kept a reserved interest for numismatics.
In terms of specialism, I am interested in the computational side of archaeology. I was able to take part in a photogrammetry project whilst in Greece and am currently teaching myself how to use GIS software.
What are you looking forward to about your placement?
The idea of spending time away from home, to somewhere I’ve probably never visited before seems like a holiday. I love life in the field and therefore will enjoy being on different excavations throughout the year.
What do you hope to get out of your placement? I hope to master the fundamentals of archaeological fieldwork whilst on my placement year at ASE. To learn and gain experience in the specialisms that I am interested in appeals to me, but to also broaden my horizons and keep an open mind when trying my hand at other niches will be invaluable.