From Egypt to Bonn: Our experiences as guest researchers at the KAAK

During our stay in Bonn as guests of the equality of opportunity program we had the chance of not only working on improving our academic curriculum, but also to build on our professional network, and to know of possible institutions to continue our studies. Moreover, the whole travel experience was worthwile and full of exploration.

Staying in Bonn was also a chance to know of different institutions in the region as possible destinations for future studies. At the University of Cologne we met professionals and students from the African Archaeology Archive Cologne (AAArC) who gave us valuable input on the material and data-management related methods with which we were working. Additionaly, we had the chance to meet in person professors Dores Cruz (African Studies department) and Richard Busmann (Egyptology department) to discuss a few possible graduate programs we could potentially join.

Another institution we visited was The University of Bonn where we were introduced to their Egyptological library collection, attended conferences and lectures, and learned about the different graduate programs. We also visited the university’s Egyptian museum, where Dr. Frank Förster was kind enough to give a tour on the museum’s history and collection.

Furthermore, we were able to devote ourselves to our scientific work without any distractions. The KAAK offered us access to their library, and any assistance we needed to carry out our projects. Dr. Johanna Sigl was always readily available to answer any questions we had regarding work or studying in Germany.

Apart from our scientific work and the attendance of the university institutions we had the chance to visit some famous sights. Some trips we have made together, some individually, each for herself. Among the sights visited were some castles and churchs as well as museums in Germany and the surrounding countries. One special trip was our visit of the historic mustard mill in Monschau, through which we were able to get an idea of how mustard is made, tested more than 20 flavors of mustard and bought some. Another activity worth remembering was our excursion to Xanten archaeological park. There we got to learn about the Roman history of the ancient city and gained some insights into social life in Roman Times. The reconstructed buildings with detailed interior design and furniture made it possible for a moment. Moreover, we were able to receive some informations about site management and the reconstruction process itself.