Archaeological Digs!?

Question

Does anyone know if it is possible for an 18-year-old (with just a high school diploma) to go on a volunteer archaeological dig? I've read a bit about field schools, but can anyone tell me more? I'm not sure where to find the resources for this, can anyone help me out? Thank you!

Answer 1

Just came back from a Passport In Time dig in Oregon.

"PIT" is a volunteer program run by the Forest Service. There are projects year round and cover most of the United States

Answer 2

What a great question!  

Consider becoming an Alexandria Archaeology Volunteer.

The City of Alexandria, Virginia, welcomes volunteers like you.

You have to be at least 16, so your age will certainly be no problem.

Excavation, artifact study, historical research, computer work, oral history, editing, teaching and other opportunities are seasonally available. Experience isn’t necessary.

703-838-4399.

oha.alexandriava.gov/archaeology

Answer 3

If you are in Arizona, some of the museums may offer you such oppotunities.  I wnet on a dig at Elden Pueblo as a field trip for a class I was taking...thoigh of course I was already enrolled in college when I did so... .

Answer 4

Yes, you can at least ask around.  Check out http://www.shovelbums.org/ and  http://www.cyberpursuits.com/archeo/fiel... and http://archaeology.about.com/od/currentd... .  Also get in touch with your local university...if they have an archaeology department, you should contact the on staff archaeologist and ask as many questions as you feel necessary.  There's no harm in trying!  I'm an archaeology student, and fresh minds are always welcome.  Playing in the dirt now could help you decide whether or not a career in the field is right for you.