– Life as an Archaeologist –
Since 1993, professor Dr. Andrew Kinkella has spent 17 field seasons in the jungles of west-central Belize, studying the Classic Maya (AD 250-900).
Professional Speciality
His archaeological research focuses on a string of 25 cenotes (small, deep lakes) located in the Cara Blanca region of Belize, and how the ancient Maya used these cenotes during water rituals.
His research includes the exploration of the cenotes using diving equipment to document artifacts that have been underwater for over a thousand years.
Academic Work
In addition to working in Belize, Dr. Kinkella is also the director of the Moorpark College Archaeological Program (MCAP), which teaches archaeology through research at local California archaeological sites. He has also worked in Guatemala, Mexico, and Germany.
A Deep Passion
Dr. Kinkella is passionate about using his teaching position to enrich his student’s lives through the joy and excitement of archaeology, and is currently working on expanding his audience through publishing, YouTube, podcasting and other media outlets.
Reasons to Listen
This will be a talk worth listening to for:
- those interested in finding out what being an archaeologist is all about
- those wanting to uncover what it takes to pursue this fascinating career
- those who are looking for an unfiltered and entertaining look at the work of a practicing archaeologist
Listeners will come away with insights on:
- what it’s like working in the field vs in an academic setting
- the varied roles and responsibilities of an archaeologist
- Dr. Kinkella’s pathway into the field of archeology
- some myths and truths about being within the field of archaeology
- what Dr. Kinkella specifically enjoys about the experience of being an archeologist
- some of the challenges associated with the work
- some of Dr. Kinkella’s archeological outreach activities
- a story that will have listeners squirming
- a story of archeological discovery which Dr. Kinkella was able to accomplish from his own home!
- the exciting new use cases of tech within archaeology
- much more!
A Memorable Quote from the Episode:
“Archeology is the study of the human past through artifacts. That’s it. It is intrinsically fascinating. It’s the the story of human beings. It’s the biggest story. It’s the number one story. It’s the story we all share. It’s about wanting to know the answers to the biggest questions, like who are we? Where are we from?”
-Dr. Andrew Kinkella
Check out the Video Conversation:
For those who desire to view video highlights of the conversation, you can do so via Youtube.
Discover More
For those interested in learning more about Dr. Kinkella and his work, you can check him out on the following platforms:
Keep Listening!
I hope you enjoyed the episode. For more, check out additional episodes here!