"...how many (if any!) of you got jobs *without* doing any volunteer work including unpaid internships), whether for the institution that
hired you or somewhere else..."

Hmmm.  I came to museums from archaeology, and there I worked as a student laborer while in college  - both to learn and to develop networks, etc.  I don't recall ever listing volunteer work (and never had a formal "internship") on an application except in community service.

That said, when I hire (30 applications for a 3/4 time clerical position on my desk right now), I will quite often accept internships and volunteer work as "experience."  With the number of applications we get for open positions, I look first to see that the applicant meets the educational requirements, and then look at experience, work record (how long in jobs, why moved, etc.) to make the second cut.  I think experience is VERY important whether it is paid, unpaid, volunteer, intern, or in the trenches.

Chris Dill, Superintendent
City of Greeley Museums
919 7th Street
Greeley  CO  80631
T:  (970)350-9217
F:  (970)350-9570
E: [log in to unmask]
www.greeleymuseums.com

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