Smithsonian Institution, Center for Museum Studies
While there was a lengthy discussion last year about internships it
dealt mostly with paid vs. unpaid internships and not the type of work
involved. Life is full of 'dirty work' so we shouldn't be surprised to
find that internships involve some. I am glad to see that where 'dw' was
involved, the posters have realized that it was part of the process.
'Dw' that is a means (one of many) to the end is far different from 'dw'
that is the end in itself. Communication between the supervisor and the
intern beforehand will help avoid any misunderstandings about the 'dw'.
I always tell my interns that they will have to answer their phone and
send their faxes, just like I do mine. They are not expected to play
receptionist or secretary, just do the work required to complete their
projects. Personally, my internships required that I do all tasks to
complete the projects and some 'dw' was involved. However, it is
important for intern sponsors to realize that an internship, especially
an unpaid one, should be structured as a learning experience - there are
legal implications if it is not. There will be a session dealing with
internships at the AAM mee meeting on Sunday, April 27 at 8:30 am.
Elena Mayberry

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