Dear Jeanne, I am a Museum Studies and Art History graduate student at Syracuse University. As a part of my education, I am required to have a summer internship. I do not come from a wealthy family who can afford to support me over the summer, therefore I too am wondering how I am going to devote my time and hard work over the summer and not be paid. I did look into some paid internships, but those are highly competitive and receive hundreds of applicants. I truly believe that your points are valid. I know some students in my class whose family is willing to offer financial aid, as a result, they are able to obtain unpaid, high profile internships. Yes, it is elitist and is financial discrimination. In a profession that is suffering drastically from cutbacks, I am wondering if I will ever be able to make a living. As a temporary solution to my problem, I decided to take my internship for independent study credit in both Museum Studies and Art History so I can take out yet another student loan and have some money to live by. Another option is finding a part-time job and working 60+ hours a week in order to learn and survive. Thanks for addressing the issue! Jennifer Warner Syracuse, NY