Expert: John J. Shea - 1/23/2008

Question
Hi, John. I need help knowing what kind of highschool classes i should take that will help with my archeology career. I am an eithgrader that has been interested in archeology for years. I really want to know what archeology is all about. do you recommend any books that would help me out a little bit. Will you please answer my questions. Thank you so much for your time.

Answer
Kyra
Hard sciences (chem, bio, physics) and languages are the most important classes.  History and social sciences are less important, you will pick this stuff up in college, and what they teach in high school is usually a decade or so behind the times.  Also, make sure you learn how to write well.  Don't take an English class unless there is a regular paper-writing assignment.  Work REALLY hard and get the best possible scores in all classe.  The sacrifice you make now (High School) will pay off later in terms of your getting into better schools with more generous financial aid offers.
Also, stay healthy.  Exercise and avoid alcohol, tobacco, and (needless to say) drugs.  You need to be in good physical shape to do archaeological fieldwork.
Good luck with your studies.
Cheers,
John Shea