Expert: Ralph Salier - 8/9/2008

Question
Hello, Ralph.

I have been very interested in archaeology and history in general for a long time now. I am a sophomore in high school in Tennessee, and I think it would be a good idea to start looking for colleges at the end of this school year.

I am most interested in ancient Rome (Empire and Republic). I have a few concerns I would like you to address if possible:
1) Is archaeology a realistic choice for someone who plans to have a family?
2) Are there any subfields associated with Rome especially?
3) What universities would you recommend?

Thank you!

Sincerely,
Josh

Answer
Hi Josh.

I take it that your parents are not too thrilled by the idea that you want to be an archaeologist.  Neither were mine.  The advice they gave me, I will now impart to you.

Make sure that you have a back up to your career choice.  This means that while you are working to become an archaeologist, also take courses in economics, sociology, metallurgy, chemistry, and make one of these a minor study area.  Also it would not hurt you to also learn a trade like brick laying, machining, plumbing etc... This way you will always have access to the job market when the time comes to start a family.  Doing archaeology and having a family is tough at best but NOT impossible.  My back up was computer (IT) and Geology.  There was a time when, early in my marriage, that I worked in IT to make enough money to support the family.  But I always maintained the skills and links to the archaeology community.  Today, I get to do archaeology on but I make my living doing cultural anthropology and work with companies in transition.  

You should join www.shovelbums.org.  They list all kinds of job openings and how much these different jobs pay.  This may give you some idea of what you may expect to make.

You will need to get a Masters and perhaps even a PhD to get real money.

As for Rome as a specialty area, first get you BA then look at focusing on Rome in your Masters program.

U of Arizona, U of Penn, Columbia, U of Chicago would be on the top of my list.