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Personal Statement:Archaeology 6TSR Wiki > University > Applying to University > Personal Statement Library > Archaeology
Archaeology Personal StatementThe process of adapting our existing knowledge around the constant increase in discoveries of evidence is, for me, one of the most exciting aspects of studying the past from an archaeological perspective. I love the fact that the past is constantly open to interpretation and debate, and that this is even more important when we rely on material evidence that does not directly lead us to an answer, as is frequently the case with archaeology. Over the summer I got involved in a dig run by Barry Cunliffe at Brading Roman Villa near to where I live on the Isle of Wight. Living in an area so rich in Roman archaeology is a great privilege and this experience was hugely educational. While taking part in assistive work such as finds washing I had the chance to observe and experience the running of an excavation site first hand. Through talking to the experts I was able to discover more about the string of processes involved; from surveying the area through to the analysis of finds that follows the excavation itself. I immensely enjoyed this experience and acquiring a taste of archaeology in action has only served to increase my enthusiasm. I have now taken up a volunteering opportunity at the villa where I will be undergoing training to become a guide around the main exhibit. I hope this will be an invaluable learning opportunity, not only having to educate myself about the history of the museum and surrounding area, but also having to share my knowledge with other people. One element of archaeology that has most engaged me is the level of detail that can be extracted from the tiniest clues - at the excavation I was shown how, through filtering mud samples in a flotation tank, even organic matter can be analysed to reveal masses of information right down to the specific diets of those living in the region. I have been intrigued by how modern techniques, for example isotope analysis, can inform us of an individual's diet, migration habits and their surrounding climate from simple human remains. It is this incredibly in-depth level of accessibility to our past and the way we can extract such a broad range of information from single items that I find truly thrilling, and this is the driving force behind my passion for the subject. I try to keep up-to-date with current events in the archaeological world by reading a large range of articles from publications such as Current Archaeology and the Antiquity journal. I am also currently reading "Europe's Lost World: The rediscovery of Doggerland" after I became particularly drawn to the story behind and the discoveries surrounding this lost landscape, as well as the way in which the problems encountered in investigating an area completely covered by water are tackled. I make an effort to contribute towards many aspects of school life. As well as taking on duties as a prefect, I am taking part in a listening scheme for younger children in the school, in addition to being a school council representative and a member of the charity committee. My main interest outside academic life is music; aside from studying it at A level, I play in numerous ensembles both in and out of school, currently playing second bassoon in the Isle of Wight Symphony Orchestra. I am also presently working towards an ABRSM diploma in singing as well as participating in vocal ensembles, including the school choir and a vocal trio. Music - both playing and listening to it - is something that I truly love and it is something I hope to continue doing throughout university and beyond. What began for me as a childhood fascination has developed over the years into a real desire to go further into the field, and I know that I have the dedication and passion to take on the challenges and opportunities that a university education will present.
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CommentsGeneral Comments:Comments on the statement:Was told by some teachers to focus more on extra curricular things and 'sell myself', or try and relate my A-level subjects to my course (basically impossible and pointless as far as I could tell) but tried to keep the focus on my subject as much as possible and it seemed to work! Still had more than I'd like on unrelated things but there's no harm in letting them know you have other interests. Also apparently the word "assistive" isn't real, I would advise avoiding the use of made-up words but I got away with it. Sound like a bit of a knob as does everybody I think but it's hard to avoid and they probably expect it. Hope this helps any future applicants :) |
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