Insights from the 2025 Summer Internship Program at Penn Museum

Overview of the Internship Program

The summer of 2025 saw an engaging and dynamic intern cohort at the Penn Museum. This program offered 300 hours of hands-on experience, providing undergraduates, graduates, and recent graduates a deep dive into the inner workings of the museum. Interns get a chance to interact closely with various departments, cultivating skills that are vital for future career aspirations.

Highlights from the Interns

On National Intern Day, eleven interns from this year’s cohort shared their experiences and their contributions to the Penn Museum. They hailed from various educational backgrounds and each took home unique insights from their time at the museum.

Marketing and Communications

As a Marketing Communications intern, Kristin Aliquo played a pivotal role in enhancing visitor engagement through email coordination, content creation, and data analysis. She noted, “This internship opened my eyes to the world of marketing in a museum setting. It’s more than just marketing; it’s about building a community.” Through her efforts, she contributed to increasing the museum’s visibility and accessibility.

Public Programs Development

The Public Programs department benefited from the work of Ria Monga, whose focus was to design events that resonate with the community. One of her significant projects was the Artist-In-Residence Program, aimed at inviting artists to conduct workshops for the public. “This is about fostering creativity and cultural connection,” Ria expressed, highlighting the positive ripple effects that engaging events can have on diverse audiences.

Exhibitions and Interpretation

Arden Spehar, interning within the Exhibitions team, focused on interpretation, striving to create a narrative connection between visitors and the artifacts. She was actively involved in updating text labels, particularly in the Middle East Galleries, making them more inclusive of diverse histories. Arden emphasized, “I’ve found a passion for making archaeology relatable and accessible.”

Collections Management and Conservation

Rory Treanor and Isabelle Rivera Gandrung, working in the Collections division, provided support for upcoming exhibitions. Their contributions included preparation tasks for the Ancient Egypt and Nubia Galleries, which are set to open in 2026. Engaging in this hands-on work allowed them to apply theoretical knowledge from their studies, bridging the gap between education and practical application.

Family Programs Engagement

Bailey South worked on the Family Programs team to create interactive learning experiences, guiding children and caregivers through gallery tours and hands-on activities. She shared, “Every session is as rewarding for me as it is for the families involved.” Her immersion in developing family-oriented programs demonstrates how museums can tailor experiences for younger audiences and families, merging education with enjoyment.

Cultural Heritage Research

In the Penn Cultural Heritage Center, Sierra Williams and Paris Quetzal Sistilli conducted research on pressing heritage issues. Their focus on collaborative projects highlights the importance of preserving culture and addressing modern challenges in the field. “Our findings aim to promote ethical practices in heritage management,” Sierra explained, underscoring the significance of integrity in museum operations.

Archival Preservation

Meanwhile, Marielle Orff, as the Museum Archives intern, dedicated her time to cataloging and preserving records. By synchronizing archival description with her curriculum, she was poised to lay the foundation for her future career in museums. “The practical application of my studies in real-world settings has been transformative,” she said.

Collections Management Insights

Amelia Ketzel and Walker Ellis shared responsibilities between the Mediterranean Section and registrar’s tasks, contributing to the overall organization of collected artifacts. Their internships granted them insights into the logistical and safety aspects of managing museum pieces, shaping their understanding of the operational complexity behind a museum’s facade.

Future Opportunities

For those who aspire to become part of such a fulfilling journey, the Penn Museum offers paid summer internship opportunities suitable for undergraduates and recent graduates from all disciplines. Being an intern means stepping into a realm where creativity, professionalism, and substantial learning converge.

The Takeaway

Reflecting on the experiences shared by interns, it is clear that opportunities like those at Penn Museum create lasting impacts. Whether it be enhancing skills in marketing or diving into cultural preservation efforts, each intern walked away with deeper knowledge and a network of connections. While feedback and reviews provide insights, nothing compares to firsthand experiences. Explore your interests through verified providers, with convenience and affordability in mind on GetExperience.com. This platform empowers travelers to book their experiences without hidden costs, ensuring a fulfilling journey filled with enriching moments. Book your trip now!

As noted, internships offer a fantastic gateway into the tourism world. These opportunities foster essential skills through direct engagement in hands-on roles across various departments. Moving forward, the collaborative efforts within internships at institutions like the Penn Museum reinforce the importance of merging education with practical experience, paving the way for future careers and adventures in the rich tapestry of cultural tourism.