19th February 2012, 08:43 PM
In truth, at first I did believe that joining the IfA would be a worthwhile endeavour, particularly as they have an option specifically for students. At the time of joining it did at least provide some insight into professional archaeology whilst I was still studying; however now I have at least some form of relevant employment and have spoken to both my colleagues and diggers working for other units it does seem as though relatively few people in a similar position to myself are members. I think I would be reluctant to pull out completely; however perhaps hanging back as an affiliate and biding my time until I have more experience/a more stable job would be a better idea. For some reason I had assumed that the IfA was effectively the union for archaeologists but clearly not. I'll run a google search anyway, but if you could mention an organisation or two that would be great.