Graduate Profile: Andres Frischeisen, MTS '23

Memorable Moment 

I have had many memorable moments at Harvard, but having the unique opportunity to travel to Israel and participate in an archaeological dig has been the most memorable. During the trip, I fell in love with archeology while I and a few other students dug up a Hasmonean farmstead. There we found ancient nails, jars, and even a coin! During this trip, I realized that I want to understand better material culture to inform my research. In addition, I got to know my advisor and teacher, Dr. Giovanni Bazzana, on a more individual level, and through mere conversation, I learned so much from him. Partaking in this trip has likewise allowed me to network with students from Europe with similar interests, who I now consider my friends. 

Message of Thanks  

Though he will never read this, I would like to thank my father, Ramon Carlos Frischeisen. It is because of his tenacity and persistence that I—eventually—learned to value my education and the opportunities surrounding it. Likewise, I want to thank my mother Blanca and sister Noelia, who gave me the strength and sustainability to study for the last decade. Moreover, I would like to thank the people who have been helping me in recent years, like Noemi, Glen, Tia Laura, Tio Willy, the Primos, Philip, and Isabella. There have been many people who inspired me to study throughout my life, to mention and thank a few: Mr. Brian Smith, Mr. Shanan Estreicher, Fr. Gioachino Basile, Fr. Robert Sadlack, Dr. Clarence Jefferson Hall, Dr. Gimlar Visoni, and Dr. Bert Breiner. Although in different ways, they all instilled in me a deep love for the study of religion and history.

Future Plans

I will move to Jerusalem a few weeks after graduation to begin a second MA in archaeology. I hope to reinforce my knowledge of ancient languages, get as much exposure as possible to working in digs, and better familiarize myself with material evidence. In addition, I want to take advantage of the city's many pedagogical resources, like its historical sites and museums. After that, I hope to apply to a PhD program in fall to continue cultivating my knowledge of the history of Early Christianity, with a particular focus on Early Christian rituals, like initiation rites, baptism, and house churches.