MSc Archaeology of the North
Why did you choose this degree programme at the University of Aberdeen?
I became interested in strontium isotope analysis while studying at Tulane University in my undergrad. I worked in cultural resources management (CRM) from 2013-2019 and decided I needed a change in life. I wanted to pursue my true passion--research--and not exploitative for-profit archaeology. After careful consideration, because I was interested in strontium isotope analysis and Norse archaeology, I decided that the University of Aberdeen was the best choice for me. Dr. Kate Britton is one of the leading figures in Sr isotope archaeological research and the university has a great faculty.
What skills, knowledge or experience did you gain or develop on this degree programme?
I learned about the archaeological sciences (isotopes, ancient DNA) and further developed critical thinking skills with regard to archaeological theory.
I participated in the excavations at Craig Rock, an Early Medieval Pictish site located near modern-day Leven, Fife, Scotland.
What advice would you give another student who is considering applying to this programme?
You will learn to believe in yourself. You will learn the real building blocks of archaeological science and archaeological theory--and then some. If you want to be an archaeologist, join this programme.
Is there anything else about your time at the University of Aberdeen that you would like to share, that was not covered in the above questions?
It's a breathtaking and wonderful campus. Kilau for coffee (or lunch) and St. Machar Bar for a good time. Tell them Euan sent you and to "put on Convoy." And, of course, when life gets hard, you can always clear your mind in Seaton Park with a walk through the woods right out to the sea. And careful--if you aren't looking--you might just miss a seal in the River Don!
