My name is Jessica, I am an archaeologist. I’ve been an archaeologist for over fifteen years and I have done all the different jobs, studies, and experiences that you will find across this field.
I have two degrees, a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from San Jose State University in California and a master’s degree in history with an emphasis and underwater archaeology from the University of Rhode Island. I also have a graduate certificate in geographic information systems. I’ve spent the past 15 years diligently working on archaeology sites, in museums, on boats, for state and federal government and everything else that you can think of in pursuing this crazy dream of being an archaeologist.
Archaeology can be very challenging it takes a lot of work to maintain a career in this field. It takes a lot of compromise to get the experience that you need to pursue meaningful work. This has been particularly challenging for me because for the first 12 years of my career my husband was an active duty military fighter pilot. While he’s not active duty anymore he is still a pilot and the schedule, stress, and constant moving that come along with that job has made my job even more challenging.
In 2015 we made our life a little bit more complicated when we decided to add children to our family. I have two beautiful daughters, two dogs, two cats and now 8 chickens. Why do I bring this up because I’m more than just an archaeologist, I’m also a mom, a friend, a wife, hobby farmer, and a fulltime archaeologist.
My goal with this blog it’s not only share my passion for archaeology and history but to also share the tips tricks I have learned on this journey. I also hope to answer the questions that no one ever answered for me. Whether its how to find a job all the different facets of archaeology or how to successfully or unsuccessfully, balance between family life and that of a very demanding career.