With the Tanzania trip commencing in a few days it is all beginning to feel real. In terms of expectations, I am going into this trip with an open mind. I am expecting to be challenged with new experiences in ecology but especially archeology. I have no prior experience at research stations, dig sites or in the tropics, so I am feeling some nerves. I hope I am as prepared as I can be as a novice researcher.
I have been able to ease some of my nerves by preparing with two books: Only in Africa: The Ecology of Human Evolution by Norman Owen-Smith and The Biology of African Savannahs by Bryan Shorrocks and William Bates. I have additionally done research on the taxon group proboscidea (elephants) and the paleoecology/archeology method of mesowear (macroscopic tooth wear). Aside from the academics, I have a travel doctor assisting me with malaria meds and vaccinations in efforts to set myself up for success.
I am most excited to experience the wildlife of East Africa. I have been watching documentaries about African savannahs since I was little so getting to experience places like Serengeti National Park for myself is surreal. By the end of this trip I hope to accomplish a new sense of confidence surrounding the methods of research we will be performing. I hope to have gained a better appreciation and love for this part of the world as well as made connections with those I am sharing these experiences with.
