Frequently Asked Questions
The application forms asks about previous research papers, but I don’t have any yet... Does this mean I’m underqualified for this school?
Certainly not. Students of any academic level can take part in this field school.
Can I choose my own topics of research?
Yes, you’re even encouraged to do so.
Can I do research or papers that are required for my classes back home?
Yes, we will even assist you. PhD students are also welcome and will get personal research guidance.
I’m interested in anthropology but haven’t had any classes in it (yet). Can this field school be useful for me?
Yes, it can. We start at any level and will hold your hand on your first steps in the wonderful world of anthropology. The project is also an excellent opportunity for people who are thinking about studying anthropology in the future. Next to our guidance you’ll get to know the other participants and share their experiences.
Are there any extra costs to the program?
Yes there are:
1. The plane ticket to and from Malta International Airport, you’ll have to arrange that yourself.
2. Optional courses require an extra fee.
3. The single bedroom option.
The brochure says only breakfast and dinner are included... how about lunch?
We have our own kitchen and stock of food, you can eat as much as you like.
Is the food any good?
Yes, we hold high standards in this. Most of the times we will be dining in a very good restaurant nearby, but we bring an excellent cook as well who is familiar with local cuisine.
If I don’t take the single bedroom option, where will I end up?
You’ll have a roommate. We’re staying in two bedroom apartments, each with its own (large) livingroom, kitchen, bathroom (bath & shower) and balcony. Each bedroom has two (good) beds, so each apartment will hold up to four students.
What’s the accommodation like?
The apartments are located on the border of Xlendi town (a very small fishing village) and are very beautiful, spacious and clean, even a bit too luxurious for an anthropologist... The view from the apartments is astonishing! They are grouped by four in two-story high blocks, with an immense roof balcony that doubles as an evening meeting place for anthropological (and otherwise) discussion.
All work and no play?
Of course not.. When you’re with a group of people who share the same interest, even work will be fun. Next to this former participants and ourselves cherish beautiful memories of wild and quiet moments together. Yes, it will be fun!
Is there an internet connection?
Yes, we provide in a wireless ADSL internet connection, accessible for all participants.
Is there any equipment mandatory?
No, nothing but a pencil and a notebook... but you’re free to make use of any equipment that you think is necessary for your fieldwork.
What’s with the diving course? Does it interfere with the program?
It doesn’t interfere. It even is an interesting thing to combine with the summer school and it will bring you in touch with some interesting key-persons in Maltese society. It’s the official Padi diving course, all inclusive, no extra charges. The course has a very high standard and is very safe. Afterwards you’ll have your Padi diving degree that is recognized all over the world, so you’ll be able to dive anywhere. Malta probably has the most beautiful diving spots in the Mediterranean, on any level.
Can I take all of the optional courses?
Yes, you can. Mind that if you take all three optional courses your time for personal research will be limited. But it is also possible to integrate your personal research in the optional courses.
Is the certification of this summer school valuable for my future career?
It is... the certificate is not only one of participation, but describes and emphasizes all your strenghts and skills. Your work is evaluated by a team of international academics who will guarantee and sign the certificate. For those students who perform exceedingly well we will write a personal recommendation letter for (future) job applications.
Can i get credits for this program?
Yes you can, but you have to discuss that with your student advisor in your own university or college.
More info on the application process and the scholarships
1. Sending us your application info is not binding in any way, this way you'll get to know if you are eligible for participation in the field school.
2. There is a deadline for the scholarship application, not for the summer school itself. But, when the spots are taken we stop accepting.
3. When your application is approved by our advisory board, you are first in line if you would miss the scholarship and still want to come. So that's reason enough to send us your info as soon as possible.
4. Missing the scholarship does not mean that you are unfit for the program, it just means there was someone who (at least 'on paper') was somewhat more 'convincing', 'creative'... then you.
5. We have three staff members who can give your scholarship proposal a first review (before it goes to the commission), so you can make some adjustments. Of course you have to give them some time. Don't wait until the last week before the deadline to send us a draft.
6. We encourage students to write a research proposal, in any way it is a good preparation for the summer school, even if you don't get the scholarship. And, if you decide not to participate in the summer school at all, you've gotten some free, individual education. We have no problems with that.
7. When you got the scholarship, you still have to pay half of the fee as a deposit for performing your research. It will be refunded after the summer school. This way we try to assure that we are not funding private holidays...
8. The scholarships grants are NOT based on academic background or experience. The standards are high, but within reach of anyone with a genuine interest in anthropology.
9. I sent in my application for the scholarship and i still was invited to go through the normal registration procedure (including payments).
In short, there are two options:
1. You decide to come to the summer school with or without scholarship. In that case you just proceed with the regular application procedure and do the necessary payments. If the scholarship is awarded to you, the balance will be wired back immediately. If it's not awarded, then you still have your spot in the summer school.
2. You decide only to come in case of a scholarship. In that case you just wait until the advisory board sent us their advice on your research proposal.