"My internship has refined my research skills, critical analysis of artefacts, problem-solving ability, conciseness and has enabled me to become more confident and intuitive."
BA: Majors History and Classics
"Over this semester, I have been a part of the PACE internship program as an intern at Underground Overground Archaeology, where I have assisted the head Archaeologist, Clara. Within my role, I have aided with report writing, historical research, artefact handling/cleaning, artefact cataloguing, and a range of other tasks.
My most considerable task was a project that occurred in April, where Clara and I put together an exhibition at the South Library called Elixirs, Ointments and Tonics: Medicine in 19th century Christchurch. My tasks were to choose which artefacts to display, create labels for artefacts, create posters with information on the history of the site/healthcare in 19th century Christchurch, and write a blog post on the exhibition that will get posted on the organisation's blog.
Over the semester, I received positive feedback from both the Overground Underground team as well as my lecturers. I have worked hard, which is evident in my grades which have improved significantly. My confidence levels and passion for my interests have grown as I have taken significant personal and professional development steps over the semester, leaving me feeling motivated and driven about where I am headed and what I want to study.
My time at Underground Overground has exposed me to new areas within the historical field, which has enabled me to develop an enthusiastic interest in Archaeology. My internship has refined my research skills, critical analysis of artefacts, problem-solving ability, conciseness and has enabled me to become more confident and intuitive. Setting up the exhibition at the South Library is an example of these skills. I believe these skills are valuable within the working environment and are critical aspects of being a Historian and Archaeologist. I hope to study the Masters of Archaeological Practice (MArchP) at the University of Otago and work within the Historical field as an Archaeologist in the future.
The academic and life skills gained from the PACE internship program is highly valuable, as it has successfully prepped me with the skills needed to transition from a student to the work force. I recommend this course to anyone who doesn’t know what their next step is, or those looking for experience in their chosen field."
