BSA Undergraduate Course - things to know before you go

It was a relief to arrive at the BSA Undergraduate Course and find out that many of my fellow coursemates were as excited and daunted as I was, venturing into the unknown and wondering whether we would fit in both socially and academically. We learned so much about the practicalities of the course as well, given than we stayed in the BSA hostel for the first two weeks before moving around to various hotels on the Peloponnese.

So in an attempt to reassure future course attendees, I have put together some observations and comments gleaned from the class of '22, and some tips which may come in useful before travelling.

First and foremost, you WILL fit in and find friends. For many of us, it was the first time being away from home without family, or being away for over the usual two weeks of family holiday. Sharing accommodation helps, and you will soon find people who have similar interests to you. I was one of three mature students and we were made to feel so welcome, and were included in activities and social outings.

Likewise don’t worry that people have more experience or knowledge than you. Attendees come from many different universities (and at many different stages of undergrad) with diverse life experiences, and most people have something that they are particularly interested in and love to share.

I learned something from everyone, and the group were so enthusiastic about classics, ancient history and archaeology that it was difficult not to be inspired.

Top ten tips (in no particular order)

1. Make sure you pack mosquito repellent, or get some from the local pharmacy as soon as you arrive (there is one within a few minutes' walk from the BSA). The BSA garden is a beautiful space to eat breakfast and relax in the evenings, but it is a magnet for mosquitos and they love new blood. Apply it regularly, even under clothes as they get everywhere!

   
   

2. Take a notebook no bigger than A5 for taking notes on sites and in museums, or use your phone/tablet (make sure to tell your tutors that you're note-taking not texting!

   
   

3. Pack as lightly as possible, with light coloured clothes to keep off the heat, in a bag or suitcase that's easy to move and carry. The BSA hostel has no lift, so you will be carrying your own luggage up several flights of stairs to your room, and you will spend the final week moving between accommodations.

   
   

4. Take comfortable shoes. You will spend a lot of time both walking and standing, so have at least a pair to wear and one to change in case of mishaps.

   
   

5. There are washing and drying facilities at the BSA, but time your washing carefully! Avoid washing on the day before travelling to the Peloponnese as machines and drying racks get busy and you may not dry your clothes in time.

   
   

6. A hat is a must, as is high factor sun cream. Lots of time is spent outside on sites with little or no shade.

   
   

7. Take a water bottle and drink plenty of water. The tap water in Athens is safe to drink, and your tutors will advise about the Peloponnese.

   
   

8. Be on time for buses and at meeting points, as any delays can impact the timetable which often has several sites in one day.

   
   

9. Take a power bank for phones. You will likely take a lot of photographs over the course of a long day and the ability to recharge several times means that you won't miss photo opportunities because the battery is dead.

   
   

10. Use the BSA library. It is a beautiful space where you really feel the scholarship of past and present surround you. It is a haven of peace at the end of a busy day, and you can study, write or read until late.

And some final pieces of advice from my fellow coursemates who were kind enough to share their wisdom:

"Treasure every moment, it has been so much more than I expected."

"You will always find something to learn."

"Forget everything you think you know and be prepared to learn something new."

"Soak up every single bit of information."

"Don't worry about partying, you can do that at home. You'll never have this opportunity again so make the most of it."

"Be interested, participate, ask questions. Don't think you're the only one who is wondering whatever you are."

"Your tutors are experts in their field. Take the opportunity to learn from their knowledge."

"The course is busy and demanding, but so very rewarding. Have fun and enjoy every minute. I would do it all again in a heartbeat."