What is the internship itself?
Students work side-by-side with their supervisors at one of the many Smithsonian units three to four days a week. The work is varied. Depending on the venue and placement, students may serve as junior curators, exhibit or event team members, research assistants or archivists in training, among other opportunities.
What are the other components of the program?
In addition to the internship, students take a seminar in museum studies that meets once a week on Friday mornings. This is a course with the expectations of a seminar taught at Smith (readings, assignments, etc), but also includes guest speakers, site visits, and field trips.The class frequently meets at locations around D.C.including the National Gallery and Mount Vernon.
Students are required to develop a substantial independent project (equivalent to a 25-page paper), which is evaluated by Smith faculty. The independent project is supported by the twice-monthly research seminar, which includes sessions on building research skills, using the Library of Congress, and occasional behind-the-scenes visits to SI resources like the Archives Center at the National Museum of American History or the State Department's National Museum of American Diplomacy. Select projects can be found on SmithScholarWorks.
How many credits will I receive, and in what subject?
The Smithsonian Program is a 16-credit program. Students receive 4 credits for the guided learning experience of their internship (AMS 410) , 4 credits for the museum studies seminar (AMS 411) and 8 credits for the research seminar (AMS 412). All appear on the transcript as American Studies credits. Often one or more of these courses can be used for credit within the major department/program.
Do I have to be an American studies major?
Absolutely not. Students from all majors are encouraged to apply. Internships span a wide range of disciplines, as does the Smithsonian Institution itself. In the past few years students majoring in anthropology, art history, astronomy, data science, education, government, history, and study of women & gender, as well as American studies, have participated in the program.
When do I start? How long does it last?
You begin your internship the day after Labor Day and finish on the final day of Smith classes. Vacations and holidays are negotiated with your supervisor. Classes follow the Smith academic calendar.
What does a typical workday look like?
Typically, student interns work from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. This schedule, however, is dependent on units and supervisors. Students commute to work via Metro, Metrobus, or on foot. They tend to check in with their supervisors every day or so, but are generally independent during the workday itself. Day-to-day activities might include sending emails; attending meetings, lectures, and special events, conducting research or proofreading copy. After work, students frequently attend talks or museum activities, head to a public library or the Library of Congress to do some homework, go out with friends, or attend a cultural or networking event.