Vivien Woerdenweber answers questions about her time studying for an MA in Archaeology, what drew her to the course, her advice to those considering postgraduate study, and her future plans.
Can you briefly describe the path you’ve taken to get to where you are today?
I have always had a passion for history and archaeology, but my life took a different path when I was younger. I applied as a mature student to the University of Liverpool for the Go Higher Diploma course which enabled me to then go on to study Archaeology at undergraduate and then MA level.
What attracted you to study within the Department of Archaeology, Classics and Egyptology (ACE) at the University of Liverpool?
The University of Liverpool has a reputation for providing interesting and stimulating courses. This is very true of the ACE department, which is one of the leading archaeology and Egyptology departments in the country. The teaching in ACE is provided by lecturers who are leaders in their field, and there are opportunities to join ongoing projects for first-hand experience.
After completing my BA, I wanted to continue my studies as ACE is such a welcoming and inclusive department. I have acquired many new skill sets and really felt like a part of the department.
What did you particularly enjoy about your MA studies?
My MA studies included the opportunity to take my interest in experimental archaeology further. This included field days out to Ness Gardens on the Wirral where we have the EARTH experimental school and fire pottery in the kiln, experiment with metallurgy and build structures, experimenting with ancient building techniques.
I also took some modules that I had not studied previously which I really enjoyed and gave me a bit of a challenge. This helped me to further my knowledge and expand my skill set. The seminars were particularly interesting, especially as everyone is coming with a slightly different viewpoint, and this makes for good discussion. The groups were usually quite small and would often continue over a coffee after the seminar.
What did you do once your MA studies were complete?
I plan to take my studies further by studying for a research MPhil in Archaeology, which I am hoping to progress to PhD level after this. My ultimate aim is to work as a researcher.
Do you have any advice for anyone considering an MA within ACE at the University of Liverpool?
If you have just finished your undergraduate degree, perhaps you should consider taking your MA/MSc on a part-time basis to give yourself a bit of breathing space, after an intense year 3 and dissertation.
Start thinking about your PG dissertation early and have an idea of what you would like your MA/MSc dissertation to be and prospective supervisors. It is a good idea to approach those you'd like to supervise you early, so they can accommodate you. Speak to prospective supervisors about your ideas, they will be able to give you a solid basis for your research to develop and make sure you attend all supervisory meetings.
Maybe take some modules within your subject that you have not considered previously to expand your knowledge and open other doors of opportunity. Take the opportunity to engage in extra-curricular activities, PG events and lectures both within the department or by guest speakers. These are good opportunities to learn and also network within the department. Make the most of your time studying at UoL and utilise all the resources available to you. Make new friends and importantly, enjoy the experience.