There is a hierarchy in the archaeology world, much like there is in every other job situation. Let me lay out the basic hierarchy for you:
Principle Investigator (PhD)
Project Director (PhD)
Crew Chief/Senior Archaeologist (Masters)
Staff Archaeologist (Bachelors)
Shovel Bum (no experience required)
Since I just have a bachelors degree I am automatically placed above the shovel bums and below everyone else.
The problem here is that experience doesn't really count. For example there are people that are considered shovel bums because they don't have degrees but they have 20 years of experience. Why am I "over" them when they have more experience and know more then me?
Same goes with the Crew Chiefs... just because some one has a Masters doesn't mean they are automatically smarter and more qualified then me to run a crew.
It's all so frustrating. I've gone as "high" as I can as an archaeologist without a graduate degree.
I guess I need a Masters if I want to stay in the archaeology world....
That being said. I did apply to graduate school for my Masters and I did get accepted. However, I'm 99% sure I'm NOT going.
I'm ready to move on. I love archaeology and I always will but I feel like I need a change. I'm ready for a change. I'm scared but I believe it's for the best.
I can't go back to school and dedicate 3 hard years of my life and a lot of money to get a degree in something that I don't want to do anymore.
That's it. Bottom line. I don't want to do it any more.
Yes, there are other things that are playing a role in this decision but I can't talk about them right now. Sorry. Once I make the move and the word is out I'll tell you all about it.
7 comments:
Good for you, taking control of your destiny! (but whenever I think this to myself I always have to remember, within the Lord's will :) cuz I have a hard time when things don't go as I expect! :)
That's exactly why I decided to do a Master's in Linguistics... I felt the same way.
can't wait to hear where the next big move it going to be!! so exciting!
Come teach English in Korea! I can get you a job, plane ticket over here and you can easily travel the Eastern world for a year while you get paid! :)
I am excited to see what the next stage in life will bring you! Sometimes the hardest part is trusting that you've made the right choice, so you're past all that hard part!!! Good luck, keep us posted on what's in store for you next! Miss you!!
Go with what's best for you. No regrets. Life is meant to be full of challenges AND adventures. Both good and bad. Find something you love and stick with that. You'll be great at whatever you choose. I just know it.
i heart you! mucho-ly!
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