Volunteers have played a wide variety of roles in the museums with which I have worked. Some have titles (such as "docent"), most do not. I do feel strongly about the word "intern," however. When a student approaches me about volunteering to gain experience and a deeper understanding of the museum field, I offer them two options: "volunteer" -- someone who helps out in various ways, not necessarily the same hours each week, often being called upon for special events, etc.; and "intern" -- someone who has regular hours of at LEAST ten hours per week, a specific project on which they are working (and are expected to complete), as well as performing additional tasks as needed. I require interns to submit a resume and come in for an interview (hey, it's great practice!). Although they are not paid, I suppose I expect more from an "intern" as they are usually looking for pre-professional experience. Besides, that's the way I got started in the field! **************************************************************************** Laura Aaron [log in to unmask] Curator of Education phone: 503-346-0966 University of Oregon Museum of Art FAX: 503-346-2220 Eugene, OR 97403-1223 ****************************************************************************