This semester, I had the distinct pleasure to participate in an internship at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum (LVNHM). I originally came on as a "cross-function" intern, but was then transitioned into the "operations intern."
The most unique and enjoyable part of my internship was that regardless of who you were or what your job title was, everyone helped out everywhere. There was no task that was beneath anyone. There were many days I would be shifting exhibit items side-by-side with my Executive Director.
The nature of the work, led me to discover many interesting aspects of the museum world. I participated in grant research, printing, taxidermy cleaning and repair, marketing, community outreach, museum tours, building maintenance, fundraising and security. I enjoyed coming in everyday, not knowing what to expect for the day. I had to be flexible, adaptable and level-headed as most days tasks would change, or be added to my list at a rapid pace. Despite that, I felt that I was making a difference everyday, I felt like my work had purpose, and I was appreciated. As an older Non-Traditional student coming from corporate America, it has been a long time since I have felt valued at a job - it was refreshing and eye opening.
The varied work lend itself to a wide variety of education and majors. Almost any degree from any discipline can find a home here. My studies in Anthropology and Foreign Language were useful in both talking with guests and with applying knowledge during tours.
I met some wonderful and amazing people, both employees and guests with a love and passion for education and history.
After spending this time at the museum I would very much like to explore the museum world as a career and see where an adventure will take me.
Hi Ture!
It sounds like you had a very experience-filled internship and I think that is so fantastic for you. It also sounds like you were surrounded by a great team and I am sure that made this learning experience more fun than traditional learning. I think that is the great thing about internship opportunities, it is such a learning curve and can be really scary especially if you lack a lot of experience as I do, but at the same time, it is fun just like lots of other new experiences. I am happy you enjoyed and benefited from your internship and I wish you luck in your future endeavors!
I'm so proud to know you Ture. You're an incredible human being and bring so much value into every space you're a part of. Can't wait to continue to see you add value to our community!
I had a very similar experience to yours at LYF--let's hope that this marks a shift in companies valuing their employees as human beings over the labor that they bring to the table! I'm really glad that we were in the same class and that I got the opportunity to get to know you--I think that you have a great perspective and that your communication skills and genuine interest in other people is going to serve you well no matter where your career takes you from here. if it takes you into event coordination, you know how to reach me--I'd be happy to lend a hand, an ear, or whatever else is required!
Hi Ture,
I am glad to hear that you were able to find an internship where you feel valued and excited to show up each day, it is certainly important to work in a space where you feel comfortable. It is also interesting to see how much you actually did at your internship site as well! I had not realized how many different types of jobs were available at museums, but it definitely seems like you got to experience working in a variety of different roles, so I can only imagine how much more interesting that made your job! It is nice to hear about how each day brought new experiences and I hope you continue to feel this fulfillment in your future endeavors!
Ture, Thats amazing that although you loved the internship you also acknowledged the fact that you felt valued, many jobs or groups never take satisfaction into account when it comes to the people they lead. Im glad although your role may have changed you still gave it your all and that you are happy with the difference you made for the Natural History Museum. Hopefully this helps you find a hidden love for Natural history and all its secrets!
Hi Ture,
I've always considered the natural history museum as an invaluable space in the city. Growing up in Vegas I always felt like there weren't many opportunities that allowed you to immerse yourself in history or that the city didn't invest enough money into the creation and foundation of museums. I am happy to hear that there is a lot of work being done and that there are people there who really care about maintaining the space. I think finding a dynamic work environment that allows you to work with people of all levels is rare to find. It can be one of the most constructive things ever to work and learn from those who have more experience than you and I am glad that your time at the natural history museum gave you that.