Current student
PhD in Archaeology and Anthropology
“My interest in Swahili archaeology emerged from my first visit to coastal East Africa as an undergraduate. I was captivated by the abandoned settlements of beautiful coral architecture by the blue-green Indian ocean that represent the cultural and material richness of centuries of overseas and interior trade. I have been pursuing research in this area ever since. As a PhD student at the University of Bristol, now I can contribute to our knowledge of the history of this area through my own research.
“I learned about the university after researching schools with faculty who could advise a project on Swahili Archaeology. Bristol is now becoming one of largest growing centres for Swahili Archaeological Studies in the UK. Bristol has two excellent research staff members who work in coastal East Africa, and now two PhD students (including myself and another who will be joining us next year). Another great reason to come here was the support I received from staff to apply for funding. I was awarded the Overseas Research Scholarship to complete my project.
“The Department of Archaeology and Anthropology is unique in this part of the world for the collaboration between these two disciplines. In fact, this year, the department hosted the 2009 conference for the Association of Social Anthropologists of the UK and Commonwealth (ASA) with the theme: Anthropological and archaeological imaginations: past, present and future. I have enjoyed attending numerous seminars and lectures held weekly in the department. It is a great opportunity to listen to visiting scholars from around the world and have friendly discussions afterwards with other students and faculty. Outside of this forum, approaching faculty with questions has been very encouraging so far. I enjoy the challenge to work independently, while having the support of my supervisor when I need it.
“I am comfortable living a ten minute walk from the university at a residence for international postgraduate students. I found out about this place through the University Housing office and website. Interesting discussions and great culinary experiences resulted from living with other students from around the world. Just a few minutes from the house is the Suspension Bridge, which I cross every Sunday on my weekly run to Ashton Court. That whole area is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the sights, such as hot air balloons taking off over the grassy hills on a sunny day.
“I encourage other students to consider Bristol for their degrees as it provides a competitive academic environment within a beautiful and vibrant city.”
