Student Testimonials

"My experience in Benin was a life-changing experience."  -Nathaniel Garfinkle, Benin Field Program, 2009

“Taking part in this field school was one of the best decisions I have ever made...I was surrounded by amazing people and formed lifelong friendships that span states and countries. The jungle was better than any movie could make it seem and the weekend trips to local Maya sites helped put everything we were doing into perspective...I would do it again in a heartbeat. Is it July yet?” -Stephanie Ballejo, Belize Field Program, West Valley College, 2009

"The Lyminge Field School provided an extensive introduction to the archaeological process and was a wonderful experience for both novices and experienced students alike. A combination of both informal lectures and on site hands-on training allowed us to understand all aspects involved in a successful archaeological dig. As a newcomer to archaeology, Lyminge provided me with support, encouragement and the enthusiasm to see me become a budding archaeologist. Lyminge was a happy combination of meeting amazing new people from around the world and great food – an altogether fantastic experience for anyone who wants to take learning outside the classroom and experience history up close and personal. I, for one, cannot wait to go back! -Gwynne Standfield, senior, Lyminge England Field Program, UCLA, 2009

"My field experience was life-changing.  I highly recommend the British Columbia field school to anyone with a passion for archaeology, who wants to be one with the great outdoors, who likes making life-long friends, and (most importantly) who wants to have lots of fun!  It was an experience I will never forget!"  -Lisa Dojack, British Columbia Field Program, Simon Fraser University, 2008

“This field school was the most enjoyable and educational experience I have ever had! Words cannot express the great time I had learning from the very knowledgeable and friendly professors.”  Dawn Summey, CA Windwolves Field Program, 2009

"I had high expectations and they were exceeded. Not only have I learned how to begin to decipher Mesoamerican codices and deepened my background in the history and anthropology of the area, but I have gained experiences like swimming in a waterfall and crawling through an ancient Mixtec tunnel that I will never forget!" -JoAnna Wall, Mexico Field Program, UCLA, 2009

”They tell you when they try to convince you to study abroad that the experience changes your life, but I never bought that cliché line until I actually got the chance to do this program. Dr. Alexei Vranich was great, and it's obvious that he knows what he's talking about and cares about his students.  The friends I met will be my friends for life, the things I learned are things I never would have had the opportunity to learn, and the memories I’ve made are permanently stamped in my mind…You can’t choose a better city in Peru to live in than Cusco. It’s full of history, incredibly nice and welcoming people, a large tourist population that gives you the opportunity to meet people from around the world, great food, and an awesome nightlife to unwind after a hard week at the dig site. Take the plunge and go for it! It’ll be one of the best choices you’ll ever make.” -Colten, Peru Field Program, UCSB, 2009

“The course was by far the best five weeks of my life. The work was intense but it was beyond worth it. I learned more than I could have ever imagined.”  -Kara Tzinivis, CA San Bernardino Field Program, Gettysburg College, 2009