Remarks from the 2008 Interns
“I think the program went beyond my expectations. The tours and meetings proved the museum to be an even more complex and vibrant place than I was aware of. My own work in Public Programs afforded me an amazing introduction to the museum’s impact on the public.” “The number of people who shared time, information, advice and genuine offers to keep in touch astounded me. I was delighted by how much of every aspect of the museum we were allowed to see. I never expected to really be welcomed, included and taught so much.” “My expectations were exceeded in every way – I never expected to be integrated so completely into the department. Because I was able to sit in on meetings and to work closely with the curatorial staff, I was able to gain a clear understanding of the unique functions and goals of the department. I was always treated with great respect and given challenging projects that drew on my academic work.” “Not only were my expectations met but they were surpassed in every way. I could not have predicted how much I would learn and develop personally through this experience.” “I went into this program hoping that at the end I would have an idea of specifically what I want to do in museum work. Instead, I came out of this knowing that I want a museum/art career but my interest has been drawn to many new areas that I hadn’t really thought about before.” “There was definitely an academic presence, but it was more invigorating than intimidating because every one was so sincere and personable – no matter how highly ranked they were.” “I did meet people whose careers revolved around specific fields of interest…and I was able to talk with them about schools, jobs, etc. I certainly was not fetching coffee or doing research – somewhere in between. But actually, the kinds of hand-on activities I was doing were a nice break from my university routine and invaluable for learning about the treatment, handling and study of objects.” “I am not worried about the future anymore. I still do not know exactly where I will be at the end of spring semester, but I have a clearer sense of what awaits on the other side.” “I definitely feel that my experience was not only extremely rewarding for my own education and career, but I can look back and recognize that I gave something back. The Monday and Thursday sessions were fantastic! I loved being able to ask each presenter about their educational and career backgrounds. Everyone was so open with us. The tours and trips were also such a treat. I loved being here this summer. “This experience has solidified my interest in becoming a conservator, especially in a museum, not a private organization.” “I never expected to make such close and solid relationships with the other interns, as well as people in my department. I never expected to make as many connections as I did and I don’t think I realized how varied and diverse the Museum Studies days would be – not just lectures, but discussions, gallery talks…etc.”For more information, please contact the Museum Studies Internship Program by phone at (215) 684-7592, by fax at (215) 236-4063, or by e-mail at .
