Dayna,
The experience bugaboo can often be difficult for new professionals, as it
was for me and others I know. There are actually quite a number of jobs out
there that do not require significant previous experience, but they are
often truly "entry level." They also often require a little more looking
and footwork, since they are often not advertised well or only regionally.
I was always told, as a new grad, to apply to everything that interested
me. It can not hurt to get your name out theredespite the competition, and
"required qualifications" are often looser than advertised.
As basic as the positions may sound, the institutions requiring a masters
and 3-5 years experience do not consider their positions entry level, and
are probably trying to replace someone with a comparably experienced
person.
The above is a bias that can be overcome in some circumstances, if you can
convince the insitution you are the right person for the job. Graduate
classwork and internships will count as much of that experience, especially
if the position in question only requires a bachelors degree. Volunteership
and any other affiliation with museums and non-profits can be valuable
plusses. Good references, who can speak knowledgeably about you and and
your abilities/personality, are critical. If you are interested, apply
anyway, and make sure you market yourself to the situation. There are often
skills and qualifications that turn out to be far more important in
individual circumstances than simple years of experience.
The best advice I have is to try often, and market yourself well.
Developing a relationship with one or more insitutions you would like to
work with, whether they are offering a position or not, is a good idea.
Good luck.
Mark Janzen
Registrar/Collections Manager
Edwin A. Ulrich Museum of Art
Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection
Wichita State University
(316)978-5850
Dayna Minter
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experience for entry level
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<[log in to unmask]
SE.LSOFT.COM>
Greetings,
I am a graduate student nearing the completion of my M.A. in museum
studies.
I have recently begun searching for entry level museum positions to which
I can apply. During my search, I have noticed that nearly all positions,
even those I would consider to be entry level, require between 3-5 years
experience to apply. During the course of my education I have gained some
experience via internships and volunteer work, but not the quantity for
which these positions ask. I admit to being somewhat perplexed at the
conundrum presented here. You must have significant experience to qualify
for the most basic of positions, and yet, how are you supposed to get
experience if you do not qualify for any positions from which you can gain
experience? I would greatly appreciate any input or advice from more
experienced museum professionals.
Thank you for your time,
Dayna Minter
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