The Save Ancient Studies Alliance is an impressive and brave non-profit organization. Its goal is to eliminate the barrier between anthropological research and the general public by collaborating with key figures in the field. Through this partnership, they are able to produce archeogaming content, provide remarkable masterclasses, and foster a deep appreciation for the humanities.
As an anthropology major, I was unexpectedly placed on the fundraising team, for which I felt completely unqualified. In authentic reflection, I wouldn't have altered that experience for anything! I was enthusiastic about absorbing as much knowledge as possible, maintaining an open mindset, and embracing discomfort with courage.
Despite possessing the necessary theoretical knowledge, I initially lacked practical experience. In a sense, I felt as if I was working at a startup without the associated entrepreneurial spirit. While fundraising is not a career path I intend to pursue due to a lack of passion and talent, I enjoyed researching and presenting on organizational structures and strategies.
I was pleasantly surprised by my level of involvement and my eagerness to make critical decisions. I believe that by specializing in a specific area, such as Donor Management Systems, I can develop the necessary expertise to excel.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time at SASA and will be continuing on as a volunteer. I am grateful that this experience has reinforced my aspirations for hands-on anthropological research.
For future interns, I recommend keeping an open mind and exploring new opportunities. Surprisingly, the most valuable aspect of this experience has been the connections and friendships I have made.
These connections have broadened my understanding and opened doors for potential collaborations and mentorship. Additionally, this internship has enhanced my critical thinking and problem-solving skills through challenging situations. It has also reinforced the importance of teamwork and collaboration, as I have worked closely with diverse individuals to achieve goals and make significant contributions.
Overall, this internship has been transformative, allowing me to stay connected to my passion for Anthropology while gaining invaluable skills, connections, and personal growth. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to applying my knowledge and experiences in future pursuits.
Cheers on your adventures Rebs!
