The "real" world has taught me a valuable lesson:  Work very, very hard to
achieve your deepest dreams, and eventually they will come true.  As long as
you continue to work towards these dreams, your experiences and education
will add up over the years and one day you will be offered the job you seek.


The process of looking for my "dream" museum job has been admittedly
frustrating, but I am finally on the right track after getting some work
experience under my belt.
In 1998, I graduated with an M.A. in Asian Studies from a Midwest school and
moved to Seattle.  I had already held two intensive museum internships, and
worked in an art gallery.  My goal was to work in a Seattle museum, but the
competition was very tight and I did not have as much experience as many
applicants.  When I finally landed a job as an Assistant Curator of Special
Projects at a local nonprofit organization, I really had the chance to figure
out what I wanted to do with my life.

When I left grad school, I did not think I would go back to school again (not
so soon at least).  My work experience made me realize, however, that I
really love museum work and the best place for me is in a curatorial
position.  Now I am on my way back to school to pursue a Ph.D. in Chinese Art
History, and I am thrilled.  While in school, I plan to intern or volunteer
as much as possible at places like the Smithsonian or the Asian Art Museum of
San Francisco.  I know that it will be some time before I get my "dream" job
as a Curator of Asian Arts, but all of my experiences and education will
eventually put me in the right place.

My advice to all in search of your dream job right out of college or graduate
school is to get as much experience as possible by serving as an intern (paid
or unpaid) or by working in a nonprofit arts organization.  Festival or event
planning is also an interesting way to get some experience.  The road is
tough, but I believe that the hard work will eventually pay off.

Sincerely,
A fellow dream seeker,
Ingrid

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