Interning at the Save Ancient Studies Alliance (SASA)

My internship position with the Save Ancient Studies Alliance (SASA) has benefitted my career by providing me with experience in networking and professional communication, as well as improving my overall professional organization skills. I am more comfortable and confident in navigating a professional work environment both digitally and in person, which will continue to benefit me by helping me be more adaptable in any type of professional setting. As a history major, my internship ties directly to my major of study. Because of this, my internship has not only allowed me to get a professional perspective on what I can do with a history degree but also has allowed me to learn about new and interesting historical information and resources. In terms of educational requirements to be successful in this position, I think having a formal background in ancient history certainly helps as an intern at SASA, but it is by no means a requirement. Rather, I think simply having the enthusiasm to learn about Ancient Studies as well as an interest in saving Ancient Studies education are the main two requirements to take on the position. I am interested in a career in history after this internship, but I think that this internship has helped me develop work skills that apply to many different disciplines even if I end up on a different career path. To secure a full-time position in the field, I think I still need to gain more research experience. During my time with SASA, I have developed some of my research skills in collecting information for databases, but much of this has focused on collecting information on the field of Ancient Studies itself rather than on an Ancient Studies topic. However, I still think these previous research skills could help me in future research projects. I know it’s cliche, but one piece of advice I have for incoming interns is not to be afraid to ask for help. When I first began my internship, I was nervous about asking questions and making mistakes, but it is normal to need clarification at times and it’s all part of the greater learning process.