Mediterranean Archaeology

Benjamin Rous, alumnus Archaeology 

'The decision to study at the UvA turned out to be the correct one. The environment was totally different and libertarian, which actually stimulated me. However, during the second year I once again doubted my initial choice and started studying Economics in combination with Archaeology. By doing so, I again realised how fun and challenging Archaeology actually was. After obtaining my propaedeutic diploma, I stopped studying Economics and from there on end started toying with the idea that a PhD programme might be something for me. During my final year I applied for a PhD vacancy, but was turned down. This rejection, however, only strengthened the belief that Archaeology was my calling. Of great importance was the support I received from lecturers and AIOs, who were all enthusiastic about my plans for a PhD.
I was appointed as a trainee research assistant (AIO) at the UvA a year after graduating. I’ve been in Rome for the last six months as part of my research project, and will during the coming years also be visiting the city. Apart from research, I also give lectures. I can definitely recommend giving lectures, as I believe that you need to know how to communicate something to others when doing a PhD programme.'

Lecturing

'In May 2005 I was appointed as an AIO at the University of Amsterdam. I conduct research into the architecture and imagery of late-republican shrines in Latium. As part of my research, I’ve been making research trips to Rome.
Aside from research, I also give lectures, although lecturing duties don’t form a compulsory part of the PhD programme any longer. I currently devote about 75 % of my time to research, and 25 % to lecturing (although lecturing ends up taking more time because of preparatory and assessment duties). I can definitely recommend giving lectures, as I believe that you need to know how to communicate something to others when doing a PhD programme. Whether I’m always able to do so is unclear, however, as it can be difficult to find out what students really think. This is a pity, because I think it’s important to know what your lecturing deficiencies are. By being aware of the latter, you can stay focused, strive to improve lectures and hopefully avoid going on automatic pilot. That’s why I’m a proponent of young and inexperienced lecturers standing in front of the classroom, because they’re the ones who have the passion for successfully stimulating students’ interest for a specific course.'

After obtaining a PhD

'I am not yet sure what I’m going to do once I complete my PhD research project. Maybe I might do independent research or see whether I can get a lecturing job at university level, although this might be tricky due to the relatively limited positions which are available and my own cautiousness (once you take up a position, it’s quite permanent).
One piece of advice I’d like to impart to archaeology students would be to start early with mapping out and following a career path, especially if you know what your talents are and have an idea of what you would like to do in future. By doing so, you’ll be making your own career opportunities.'