Julia Cassman

Julia is in her second year of the BA program in Archaeology and Ancient history in Uppsala  

What is your background?

I grew up with my parents, my two brothers and a dog in a quiet area ca 10 mins south of Uppsala. I have always been interested in history, as well as in biology, and for upper secondary school (high school), I chose a program that combined the natural sciences with government studies.  

Have you studied anything else?

No, not at university level. After finishing upper secondary school, I completed the basic military training as a chef in the army, and thus the BA program in archaeology and ancient history is the first university course I take. 

Why did you choose to study archaeology with us?

I love Uppsala, and it was a natural choice when applying to university. I have known since I was a child that I wanted to study in Uppsala. In addition, I have always been interested in history and at the same time, I wanted to do something practical. When I read about the archaeology program, I felt that this would be right for me.   

What is it like to study the program?

I focus on Classical archaeology and Ancient history, and it is really enjoyable and interesting. I learn new things every day. My reason for choosing this focus was mainly that I felt that it contained so much history. Furthermore, the teachers are so good; they really love their job.     

What has it been like to study online, compared to campus-based teaching? 

Studying online has worked well, I think, although I miss the teaching in classrooms on campus. I miss meeting teachers and other students live. It is difficult to get to know each other via zoom. There are several people that I would really like to know better, but owing to Covid-19, that is not possible.   

Any favourite course so far?

I have just started my fourth term in the program, and I would say that my favourite course so far is the A-course in Classical archaeology and Ancient history. It contained much history and I learnt a great deal about the Classical period. 

What would you like to see more of in the program? 

Everything is great, and the only thing I can think of to change right now is to go back to campus-based training.  

What is your purpose with the training – field archaeologist? Museum teacher, research? 

My plan is to do a double BA in Classical archaeology and Osteology. I would like to work as a forensic archaeologist, and for that, you need osteology. My reason for not focussing on osteology to start with when we chose our focus subjects was that at the time, I was not ready to leave Uppsala, and osteology is only offered in other places. My plan is now to study osteology after finishing my BA in Classical archaeology.   

Any thoughts of continuing after the BA program?

I want to do a BA in Osteology, but right now, I have no thoughts of continuing with a Master degree.  

Would you recommend the program to others?

I would really recommend the program. Especially if you like history and want to work with something practical in future.