A year of working at the NIhK as part of the FSJ has come to an end …
Our FSJ (volunteer programme) is now slowly drawing to a close and we, Leena Scholl and Adèle Wittkowski, look back on a year full of new impressions and experiences.Through the year of volunteering at the NIhK, we had the opportunity to gain unique insights into a wide variety of research fields.
Right from the start, we were able to take part in archaeological excavations from various periods. We searched for Mesolithic stone artefacts, uncovered Neolithic megalithic tombs and helped with the excavation of a Viking-era ring fort. We even had the chance to assist research divers with their work during a trip out onto the Baltic Sea. Additionally we had the opportunity to take part in drilling campaigns focused on researching coastal history. We were then able to cut open the drill cores at the institute, take samples and examine them further in the laboratory.
We were also able to lend a hand in many areas within the institute itself. Among other things, we were able to help with the documentation of finds such as Funnel Beaker Culture pottery, textiles, a bronze urn and stone artefacts. We were able to familiarise ourselves with the entire process – from sketching the finds to creating 3D models and taking photographs.
The work in the restoration workshop was also fascinating. There, we learnt how delicate finds are conserved and prepared for future research. Working on block recoveries was particularly exciting. Uncovering the objects contained within them piece by piece, documenting them and securing them so that they can be studied in greater detail provided valuable insight.
All these insights made our voluntary year an unforgettable experience. It gave us the chance to observe just how diverse and varied scientific research can be. When we look back on this year, we recall many exciting projects, enriching experiences and wonderful moments. Armed with countless new impressions and memories, we are now embarking on our degree courses.