Many people have valid questions about religion. There are many things we don't understand, and a lack of evidence explaining what brought our beliefs to current day. When Tammy Harman decided to seek a degree in Biblical Archaeology, she too questioned her own religion. To her surprise, she ended up with more questions than answers.

Tammy is now preparing to study for a degree in Classical Archaeology at the Florida State University. She gave me some insight on what it takes to pursue such an absorbing line of work. If you are truly interested in archaeology as a profession, her first suggestion is that you speak with a professional to discuss the many different areas you may be interested in and from there put a game plan together. One may want to study the Egyptian culture, or perhaps Native American research. Some of the courses that are required to obtain a degree are quite challenging. For her own area of interest, Tammy has learned to read Hebrew, and is presently studying French. In addition, she will be required to learn Greek, Latin and German.
Tammy's second piece of advice for the aspiring archaeologist is to volunteer for a dig. There are many different kinds of digs going on world wide. Going on a dig is great way to get hands on experience. In most cases, students have to pay their own airfare, food and lodging. Tammy began her studies focusing on Biblical Archaeology, which deals with religious studies such as the history of Christianity. During her studies in this specific field, she journeyed to Israel to a dig at Sepphoris, which is 10 miles north of Nazareth. Because of Sepporis' proximity to Nazareth, Jesus' home town, it is believed that he both worked and preached there. Tammy assisted with the discovery of a reflection pool and associated drain that was part of an ancient Roman public building. Artifacts found included glass, pottery, and coins. Some of the more unique finds were a makeup palette and makeup spoon, a huge stone vessel, and a glass vase shaped like a penis.

Tammy then moved on to Classical Archaeology, which studies the Greco-Roman era. (Greece and Rome.) She believes this field can offer more work opportunities, and would allow her to work in less turmoltuios areas of the world. Once you obtain a Masters Degree, you will have an area of expertise and can be invited on digs and conduct research as a paid staff member. However, it is recommended in this field to acquire a PHD in order to reach your highest salary potential. If you wish to conduct your own dig, you have to solicit your ideas to a sponsor and hope that you can be financially funded. Besides field work, other ways to utilize your degrees are to work in a museum as a curator or a professor at a University.

Tammy's next goal is to study the city of Pompeii where a Volcano erupted in 79 AD. The Volcano spewed a violent cloud of volcanic ash over the city and its people, which literally froze them in time. Whether you want to study Jesus or the Great Roman Empire, Archaeology is one of the most rewarding and exciting professions you can pursue. Tammy is destined for great discovery!

Eva Dark ( evadark@toosquare.com )