Jonas Chang: Duane G. Meyer Library Internship

History and Anthropology Double Major
Class of 2018

I would recommend this internship to any history major, even if you are not interested in archival work. After having worked with archivists, both traditional and digital, I truly understand how to effectively research. There are conventions in cataloging and defining sources that I did not know about beforehand. Now that I do, I am not worried that I will struggle to define my search terms and be frustrated when the search engine does not find what I am looking for.

There are a lot of projects that you have the opportunity to help with beyond digital archiving. These include setting up exhibits, transcribing and scanning three-hundred year old books, and prepping donations and cataloging them. By the end of the internship you have a good understanding of the scope of an archivist’s work.

The Special Collections is very willing to work with your hours. I had a part-time job during the summer and did not have a problem coming into the Special Collections when I could. I never felt like I needed to come in at a certain time or on a specific day.

Shannon Mawhiney, the digital archivist at the Special Collections, is a fantastic mentor. She and the other archivists in the Special Collections are a lot of fun to be around and make you feel welcomed.

History Internship Opportunities  History Major