Expert: Ralph Salier - 12/5/2008

Question
Hi Ralph,
I'm a Biotechnology major currently working for UPS,India.Although my current job provides me with stability and financial security, I can't seem to ignore this repressed urge to want to pursue a career in Archaeology, Egyptology in particular.
I need some advise on choice of university in the US or in Europe,what cost I would incur on tuition and whether I would be able to make this career move at all?
I'm still at a stage in my life where I'm unsure of whether Im willing to gamble away the comforts of having a secure job vs my passion to explore the known / unknown. Everyone I know seems to think its this crazy fantansy that I haven't managed to shake off, I'm dead sure its more than that!!!
Please help me make my dream a reality!

Answer
Hi Karen,

You are not alone in that boat!!. Many people have always wanted to become an archaeologist but could never justify it based on income after the fact.  You are in that same place.  

The single most important thing to know is that making between 15 and 25 dollars a day plus a modest stipend is what you would make in the US as a "shovel bum" going from job site to job site.  In other parts of the world, less then that.  BUT that said, the what if's will hound you and bother you for a life time.  So, indulge if you can afford it.  

The three schools: Cambridge in the UK, Columbia in the US and U. Cairo in Egypt.  All three have excellent programs.

Of the three U. Cairo is by far the least expensive.  But given the choice, I would go to Cambridge.  Costs include tuition, living expenses, books and lab fees, food, transportation etc... It is hard for me to add all of this up.

Good Luck.  I hope that I helped.