Her Story
About Isabella
Isabella Santilli is a graduate student at the University of West Florida, where she has spent the past two years working on a phase three archaeological site while pursuing her degree in historical archaeology. She began her journey in the field three years ago at Gulf Coast State College in Panama City, Florida, under Dr. Jason Wenzel, whose class sparked her passion after an excavation experience. Santilli previously worked as a student assistant at St. Michael's Cemetery, where she organized volunteer programs focused on cleaning headstones and maintaining monuments. She is set to become the student representative for the Pensacola Archaeological Society this fall. Santilli attributes her success to passion and hard work, and she values community involvement, having attended historical society meetings in areas like Molino, Florida. She plans to remain in Florida's panhandle after graduation, with her thesis centered on her hometown of Panama City.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Isabella
01What do you attribute your success to?
My success comes from passion and hard work. I've traveled to crazy places and not slept for days, but it's all worth it. The big thing is wanting to make my parents proud, showing them projects I've published.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The worst thing anybody can say is no. I've worked on overcoming the fear of being told no or asking the wrong questions. Just send that email, message that person, just do it.
03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Community involvement is very important to me. Being involved in places you're not typically at, showing care, especially in new places like community meetings for historical societies.
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