It involved everything I love – Archaeology and traveling! It had a special focus in Bio-Archaeology which was something I had been looking for. It could not have been in a better location. Ireland has always been a country I wanted to visit, and it is absolutely stunning! The people were fabulous, and the food was out of this world!
Alumni Spotlight: Danna Roberts
Danna has a Bachelor’s degrees in Archaeology and Anthropology. She has a passion for Bio-Archaeology and loves traveling the world to participate in digs.
Why did you choose this program?
What did your program provider assist you with, and what did you have to organize on your own?
I had just graduated when I enrolled in the program, so my university didn't help or organize anything. I wanted some real world experience before potentially trying to get a job in the field. I just happened to stumble upon the IFR Program and thought it would be fun to try and enroll. I signed up, got accepted, and paid for it all on my own.
What is one piece of advice you'd give to someone going on your program?
I wish I had known how much money I was going to spend! It is not cheap overseas, and even though housing and most meals were provided, I still wanted to venture out and do things on my own. All of these things cost money. I really wish I had known how expensive everything is. So for everyone thinking of going overseas, especially to Europe, I tell them to save money way ahead of time.
What does an average day/week look like as a participant of this program?
I woke up, got dressed, and walked to the site. It was always a beautiful scenic walk that took about 10 minutes. Once at the site, you sign the attendance sheet and wait for everyone to arrive. Then you get assigned to your cutting, and the instructor guides you in your digging the rest of the day. There is tea break and lunch break, then before you know it, the day is over!
Going into your experience abroad, what was your biggest fear, and how did you overcome it? How did your views on the issue change?
I was very nervous about traveling overseas for the first time by myself. I had no idea what to expect. The first day was certainly a shock! Everyone I stopped to ask for help was very patient and so friendly. Once I realized how helpful everyone was, it really helped me relax and transition to the new environment very quickly.
Did you have regrets?
The only thing I wish I had done differently is to stay a while longer after the program ended to see and do more of what I wanted to do. The program has a very tight schedule, and while you have the weekends free, you're so exhausted from working hard all week you just want to sleep! I managed to get out a few weekends and do some things, but I wish I had stayed longer.