THE FUTURE OF MUSEUMS

Engaging Millennials

Maureen Zaremba, Curator of Educational Programs

Education is at the core of the Ringling’s mission. While “education” usually translates to school programs and life-long learning, some of the most significant educating we do is with emerging professionals. The Museum is fortunate to have robust intern and fellow programs that provide students and scholars with the experience of a compelling museum culture. Most museum internships and fellowships offer interaction with artworks, historic homes, or popular culture collections, but here at The Ringling, students have the opportunity to interact with all of that, and more. They also work alongside of seasoned professionals who embrace the opportunity to mentor students and share the “real life” experiences that you can’t get in the classroom.

Every summer, The Ringling hosts six to seven student interns. Interns are required to be enrolled in a graduate program in their field, or to have just completed such a program. Interns apply to the area they are focusing on; curatorial, museum education, registration, visitor services, library, theater, archives. A highly competitive process, applications come in from all over the world. Each student is assigned specific projects within their departments, but a series of tours, seminars, and “behind the scenes” events provide an overview of all the moving parts of the organization. The goal is for interns to leave having accomplished a project that will enhance their resume, assist the department they are assigned to, and to have a much greater understanding of the challenges as well as rewards, of working in a public museum. Far from being a one-way exchange, veteran professionals are energized by the enthusiasm the interns bring as well as their up-to –the minute knowledge of best practices and contemporary theory. It’s a much appreciated shot-in-the-arm for all of us.

Fellowships are for a full year and are usually awarded to students who have completed a graduate degree and are looking for further museum experience or scholars whose expertise is vital to a project. Recent fellows have assisted staff with processing important collections in the archives, researching objects for the Asian art galleries, and organizing and presenting a wide variety of exhibitions. Fellows become part of the museum team and in several cases have been hired as permanent employees.

Parting is definitely sweet sorrow come the end of the summer, or the end of the fellowship. Friendships have been created as well as professional relationships. We are often asked if our students get jobs. The answer is a resounding yes! From our point of view, the future of museums is in great hands with young talent that is enthusiastic, engaged, and dedicated to making museums places for unique and one-of-a-kind experiences for everyone.