Dear Aron,

Congratulations on you graduation. A few days ago I reached the 
milestone of 35 years in museums (4 different ones). Every one was a 
learning experience--about my field and about myself. I graduated with 
an art degree in environmental design and a love for biology.  My first 
first job was designing exhibits at a natural history museum.  There I 
became very interested in museum education, got a MA in education and 
created the museum's discovery center. I then left to become director 
of education at a zoo. After that I took a position as the 
administrative director of a culturally-specific museum and am now 
director of a small art museum.

My advice is to look in your field AND look in museums in your area of 
interest.  While you are looking, I would suggest that you determine 
your dream job and/or dream museum and go there.  Find someone who is 
doing what you want to do and ask if you can volunteer with them or in 
their department.  This is a win-win-win situation.  You will probably 
end up with a mentor, your abilities will be known so that when there 
is some kind of opening in that museum you will have the inside track 
and at the very least you will have a fine recommendation for another 
position or at another museum. In a field of applicants, those who are 
already known to be qualified, personable, etc. will always have the 
inside track—its human nature.

In addition, don't be afraid of "veering off on a tangent".  Sometimes 
life presents you with opportunities that aren't in your "plan"--you 
should at least be open to the possibilities.  Remember "life" is what 
happens while you are making all those plans.

Good luck to you, Aron.
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