By Virginia Rufina Marquez-Pacheco – Contributor

This summer, I had the opportunity and privilege to participate in the course CLA 309, “Study Abroad in Greece”, organized and led by Dr. Lana Radloff. In this course, we worked at the archaeological site of the Lechaion harbour of ancient Corinth along with students from five American universities.

The work was rather straightforward and regular. A workday involved arriving at the archaeological site by 6 a.m. and excavating until 1:30 p.m. with a half-hour break in the middle of the day. On the site, our role as students was to excavate under the supervision of a trench supervisor.

Working on the site was an excellent way to gain hands-on knowledge and understanding of archaeological concepts and techniques. We learned how to use a variety of tools effectively, such as pickaxes and trowels. We also had the chance to interact with and learn from a range of specialists, including an epigraphist, someone who studies words carved into clay or rock; and a micromorphologist, someone who studies soil at a microscopic level. Moreover, we learned many of the technical skills involved in archaeology such as writing detailed documentation, drawing sketches to scale and in my case, how to set up the Global Navigation Satellite System base used to record precise geographic coordinates. Field trips to nearby sites such as Mycenae and Epidaurus supplemented our learning experience by providing the larger context of the ancient Greek world, in which Lechaion and ancient Corinth were situated. 

This experience was also an opportunity to grow as an individual. For me, this meant learning how to listen to my mind and body to set up healthy physical, mental, and emotional boundaries. Furthermore, this study abroad experience was a way for me to learn how to push myself and my boundaries safely. This ability enabled me to learn how to be more comfortable when facing uncomfortable and distressing situations. Thus, I got to know myself better.

Unfortunately, my experience also made me more aware of the many systemic issues within the field of archaeology. There were several instances when my fellow students and I faced sexist, ableist and racist attitudes. Though these were difficult situations to deal with, they also highlighted to me the importance and power of empathy and allyship. One of the best ways to stand up against these behaviours and systematic problems is to hold each other up and build a strong community.

Becoming part of a community was another significant portion of my study abroad experience. Throughout these weeks, we lived in small apartments in the small village of ancient Corinth. The local people were incredibly welcoming and open. I had the opportunity to learn from the local people about their personal histories, their interests and modern Greek history, for which I am forever grateful. These conversations helped me improve my intercultural awareness.

This experiential learning opportunity in Greece gave me more than I could ever have imagined. Though it was challenging at times, the rewards were invaluable. I highly encourage anyone who can to spend time abroad and see how you grow.