Exhibition Development InternAt — San Diego History Center
As the United States commemorates 250 years of nationhood, the San Diego History Center is developing a landmark exhibition, 100 San Diego Objects 1776–2026, exploring the region’s unique historical trajectory. This exhibition will juxtapose San Diego’s local history with national milestones, highlighting moments of intersection and divergence through artifacts, art, documents, photographs, and historic clothing. Exhibition Development Interns will play a key role in researching, interpreting, and curating content for this exhibition. This internship offers hands-on experience in museum exhibition planning, object interpretation, and public history storytelling.
Expected time commitment of 10-15 hours per week to be completed onsite at SDHC between the months of January and June 2026. Start and end dates for internships will depend on an individual candidate's academic terms. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: • Conduct research on selected objects from the San Diego History Center’s permanent collection. • Assist in developing interpretive materials that explore San Diego’s socio-cultural and geopolitical context. • Collaborate with curatorial and education department staff to prototype interpretive approaches for diverse audiences. • Contribute to exhibition narrative development, including writing object labels and thematic panels. • Participate in team meetings and provide input on exhibition design and visitor engagement strategies. • Support documentation and organization of exhibition assets (images, texts, metadata). LEARNING OUTCOMES: • Gain experience in museum exhibition development and public history interpretation. • Develop skills in historical research, writing for public audiences, and collaborative project work. • Understand the role of museums in shaping civic dialogue and cultural memory. • Explore San Diego’s layered history through the lens of place, belonging, labor, and migration. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: • Upper-level undergraduate or graduate student in History, Public History, Museum Studies, Anthropology, or related field. • Strong research and writing skills. • Interest in San Diego history, cultural heritage, and community engagement. • Ability to work independently and collaboratively. • Experience with archival materials or museum collections is a plus.
Organizational overview and tour will be provided at start of internship, along with Internship Handbook. Students will receive regular feedback to help enhance skills in historical research, object evaluation, writing for public audiences, and the development of support and interpretative materials.
Please complete the online application at www.volgistics.com/appform/650783942 As part of the online application, you will be required to include: Two references (academic or professional) and their contact information. Cover Letter outlining interest in the internship and relevant experience. Resume/CV highlighting academic background, work/volunteer experience, and relevant skills. Writing Sample (2–5 pages) demonstrating research and original writing ability, preferably related to history, museum studies, or cultural interpretation. Previously developed content or course assignments are acceptable. Academic Transcript (unofficial is acceptable). First review of candidates begins November 30, 2025.
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 10+ | hours per week |