a bout of reflection

Last week, I began to notice flaws in the way I was approaching this internship: I was overenthusiastic yet uninformed and too preoccupied with myself. I determined to make less “noise” this week to try to be a silent but efficient helper in the collections room. Most days, I snuck into work quietly enough that Jessica would remark as I left, “I didn’t even see you come in!” 

I took on odd jobs that were worthy of the label “intern’s nightmare,” as the employees put it, such as organizing and cataloging a large donation of tiny toy soldiers (this contained the collection room’s mascot: a strategically one-armed, handmade Hitler figurine that turned up one day). When I ran into problems, rather than run to someone high-up, I figured things out myself or, when that didn’t work, turned to more experienced interns. This also prompted some good conversations. This new approach is probably good to master, especially the problem-solving bit. I expect that to be very useful in a formal job situation.

Unfortunately, though, I’m still trying to figure out what aspect of this I like most. Nearly every intern I have spoken to is planning to get a master’s degree in museum studies. Do I want to go that route? Would I find this fulfilling for the rest of my life? I can’t say, yet, although I expect the job of a curator is much more complex than filing. What I do know is that my family would respect my choice if I decide to do this: they’re quite the history buffs! I went home at the end of the week, and my little sister was enraptured with my stories. Knowing her, I highly recommended doing an internship like this if she ever gets the opportunity.

I do want to work with journalism in some way, though. Should I gear my academic track toward public relations, so as to more easily meld the two fields? My thesis is at the back of my mind at all times, and I think I’m coming up with some solid ideas. I’m excited to build up my skills to get to that point, but, until then, I’ll keep my plans a secret.

On another note, the date to tear down the TB ward has been pushed back by two months! I do wish I could be of more help, but I’m very happy for the Society and all that it has done to raise awareness and change the mind of the administration.