Why did you decide to study abroad with the MRP in Belize?
Ian: When I had first heard of the Maya Research Program about three years ago, I was still a college freshman looking to break into the world of archaeology but with little to no knowledge of how exactly I might go about it. Finally asking my archaeology professor at the time if there was a particular field school she might recommend, she began to tell me of a Maya archaeological field school located in Northern Belize known as the Maya Research Program.
All the tales of small villages and excavations on long forgotten architecture, shrouded by the jungles of Belize rainforest seemed like something straight out of fantasy; as I would later discover it was an adventure greater than anything I could have imagined. What truly made me chose the Maya Research Program however, to this day is something that is beyond words. All clichés aside, something inside of my heart had felt a sense of destiny, as if I had already known even before it began that this experience would change my life as well as open my eyes to the beauty of the world.
Whether you are someone looking to begin a path into any form of archaeology, hold a deep passion for the Maya, or even if you're simply searching for the adventure of a life time, the Maya Research Program offers an experience that you will cherish for as long as you live.
What made your study abroad experience unique and special?
Ian: My time spent with the Maya Research Program in itself was so unique that it's difficult to focus on a particular aspect, though if I had to focus on a single matter, it's the professional diversity of the participating MRP members that really made this a unique experience.
When I first arrived, I assumed that I'd be working mostly with a handful of archaeologists, however I had never fathomed that I'd also be working alongside Geologists, Cartographers, GIS experts, Osteologists, Ceramicists and so many others of unique focus from every corner of the world with a passion as deep as my own. Beyond simply working first-hand with this melting pot of professions, most nights consisted of a guest lecturer giving some insight into their field; I was very thankful to have brought a second journal as I found combining information from such lectures along with field notes to be invaluable.
Even more so amazing was the focus on each volunteer's experience. While progression of research was obviously a priority, this never once hindered the devotion to each individual's success. You're still receiving first-hand experience with architecture and artifacts that many may go an entire career without ever experiencing. The work is hard of course and you're expected to give your best effort, however everyone has their limitations which are respected.
While working and living in the jungles of Belize is an amazing experience in itself which everyone should undergo at least once, joining MRP is like joining a family, and that personally is what I discovered to be most special about this particular experience.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Ian: Before this experience abroad I had been facing doubts as to exactly what path my life would take, however after the first moment of brushing through the dense wilderness and setting foot on the excavation site of Nojol Nah, I knew it would never again be a question. It would always be archaeology or bust. Also, both professionally and academically, this abroad experience with MRP has brought along skill and knowledge that I doubt I would have gained as quickly had I been elsewhere.
It is a combination of being challenged academically with the life experience of placing yourself in a different world. Stepping past the comfort zone and diving into a new culture has not only opened my eyes to the beauty of the world’s diversity, but brought upon a deeper respect as well. The experiences I’ve shared with the Maya Research Program have led me to focus on the linguistics of Maya archaeology, and I now one day hope to pursue that as a specialty.
If you possess even the slightest interest in any aspect of archaeological endeavors then this abroad program is something I’d highly recommend. Once you have discovered your passion, what it is you were always meant to be, it’s definitely a feeling beyond any other in this world.