Alexander Woods

Background:

It is a very rare thing to find something you really love in life. I was most fortunate to find my way to Anthropology. I have trouble contemplating what my life would have been like had I not been introduced to experimental archaeology while at Grinnell College. I would never have discovered my love for teaching, public outreach and all things sharp and pointy. My primary interests lies in bringing the past to the public sphere. In particular I focus my attention on the way in which individuals incorporate technology into their everyday lives. An understanding of the problems and details of everyday life allows us to begin to uncover what life was like for those who came before us.

Through my work, museum demonstrations, flintknapping, and by acting as coach of the Unofficial University of Iowa Atlatl Team, I have found that I am not the only one who shares this interest. Throughout history we, as human beings, have faced the same trials, frustrations and joys. I can think of no occupation so rewarding as one which allows us to understand, just a little, how much we all have in common.

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences