Smithsonian Institution, Center for Museum Studies
It is very frustrating to sit here and listen to people complain because
jobs are hard to get and they can't afford to do one of the most
important things required to get a job - network. This started out with
complaints about job ads that were not what they appeared to be - Aviso
was specifically mentioned. Please remember the deadlines for many of
these publications are weeks before the actual publication date. By the
time you read the ad, more than likely, someone who has been going to
conferences, conducting information interviews or participating in other
networking opportunities is already being considered for the position.
So, can you afford not to go to conferences and participate in other
activities that will allow you to meet supervisors and hiring officials?
There are MANY qualified applicants and those who are known will get the
positions. I, too, could not afford to go to conferences, but I did - by
applying for scholarships, sharing rooms and, as they say, Just Doing
It. Folks, it's an INVESTMENT in yourself. The job market is tight,
there are LOTS of qualified people vying for the same jobs and the
future does not look better. Be creative, believe in yourself and
remember that nobody owes you a thing. Yes, it is frustrating, there are
times you'll want to scream or cry (I've done both). But, there are
people who are willing to help you along, only you've got to meet them
first. Take charge of your future. I see that they are coming to take me
off of my soapbox...

Elena Piquer Mayberry                A & I, Suite 2235  MRC 427
Intern Services Coordinator          Washington, DC 20560
Center for Museum Studies            202/357-3102  voice
[log in to unmask]  email          202/357-3346  fax