Paul,

The History/Archaeology/Museum fields are extremely competative, demand
advanced degrees plus experience, and often offer low pay and benefits when
compared to other professions.

To land a good job takes a healthy dose of both perseverance and luck.
 You've got to be determined and confident that the right opportunity will
eventually come along.  In the meantime start working somewhere to build up
experience.  If you have to do contract archaeology for awhile or work at a
small historical society then do it.  You will be surprised at what you can
learn about the profession in working for small organizations with limited
resources.

If you are discouraged by not being interviewed by one or two institutions
you need to realize that this is the real world and whether you want to
excavate sites or sell cars you are likely to experience this disappointment
again and again!  Develop a tough skin. Be persistant. If you are turned down
then call the personel person up and ask why, ask for advice, so that next
time you might succeed. Get advice from professors, colleagues, and friends.
Circulate your CV and listen to what people suggest to you.  Practise
interviewing before the fact.  There are alot of positive things that a
determined person can do to improve their chances.

If your overriding concern is a certain level of income & benefits in an
entry level job then you might be right in looking at another profession.

Best Of Luck
Dave

Dave Harvey
Conservator of Metals & Arms
Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
P.O. Box 1776
Williamsburg, VA  23187-1776  USA
voice:      804-220-7039
e-mail:   [log in to unmask]