Museum InternAt — The San Diego Chinese Historical Society and Museum
Join the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum (SDCHM), nestled in the heart of the Asian Pacific Historic District, and become part of a team dedicated to preserving and sharing Chinese American history and culture. Opportunities include: Collections: Assist in preserving and organizing physical and digital collections. Operations: Support daily museum operations and events. Educational Programming: Create and deliver engaging workshops and programs for diverse audiences. Gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and contribute to celebrating the vibrant history and cultural heritage of San Diego.
By the end of the internship at the San Diego Chinese Historical Museum (SDCHM), students can expect to acquire a wide range of skills that will enhance their personal and professional development, including: Collections Work: Archival Techniques: Understanding best practices for preserving and cataloging physical and digital artifacts. Digital Asset Management: Hands-on experience with tools and software for organizing and maintaining digital collections. Historical Research: Skills in researching and interpreting historical documents, photographs, and objects. Operations Support: Project Management: Strengthening organizational and time-management skills through hands-on operational tasks. Communication: Developing verbal and written communication skills for internal coordination and external outreach. Problem-Solving: Gaining confidence in resolving day-to-day challenges in a professional setting. Educational Programming: Curriculum Development: Learning how to create engaging educational content tailored to different audiences. Public Speaking and Presentation: Enhancing confidence and clarity in delivering workshops and tours. Community Engagement: Building interpersonal skills through collaboration with diverse groups, including students, families, and educators. General Skills: Team Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a team in a non-profit, cultural institution environment. Cultural Competency: Deepening understanding and appreciation of Chinese American history and the broader Asian Pacific community. Technical Skills: Exposure to museum-specific software, tools, and technology.
The San Diego Chinese Historical Museum (SDCHM) is committed to ensuring its interns have the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Training for interns includes: Orientation and Onboarding Introduction to the museum’s mission, history, and key programs. Overview of the intern’s role and responsibilities, with clear expectations set. Collections Work Hands-On Artifact Handling Training: Proper techniques for handling, documenting, and preserving artifacts. Database Training: Instruction on using museum software and digital tools for cataloging and digital asset management. Research Skills Development: Guidance on using archives, conducting historical research, and creating summaries for public use. Operations Support Non-Profit Administration Basics: Overview of museum operations and workflows. Technical Skills Training: Instruction in using office tools, software, and communication platforms. Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Exercises: Real-life scenarios to help interns adapt to operational challenges. Educational Programming Workshop and Curriculum Development Training: Support in creating educational materials and activities for diverse audiences. Public Speaking Practice: Coaching and feedback on delivering presentations, tours, and workshops. Classroom Management Tips: Techniques for engaging and managing student groups during programs.
No specific safety information is needed.
It would be preferable if interested students could submit the following materials when noting their interest in the internship opportunity: Cover Letter: Explaining their interest in the position and how their education or work qualifications align with the role. Résumé or CV: Include any relevant experience (PDF, 2 pages maximum).
| Hours | Duration |
|---|---|
| 90 | hours per placement |