Co-op at The Met

This summer, I had the opportunity to complete my first cooperative education at the Metropolitan Museum of Art as their Adrienne Arsht Summer MuSe Intern for the Asian Art Department. This experience provided insight on museum management and administration. I learned about the inner workings necessary to lead and run the fourth largest museum in the world.

Although I am on a summer co-op schedule, I initiated my search independently in the fall as many institutions launch their intern programs at that time. Moreover, large museums often have additional material required for the application, such as 2–3 professional recommendations and an essay or writing sample. By starting my search early, I had the chance to research different institutions and companies as well as familiarize myself with the application process.

We had opportunities to connect with departments outside of our own, speak with the deputy directors, tour conservation labs, and visit closed galleries. 

At The Met, I worked as the administrative intern in my department, assisting in duties to maintain the office, support the galleries, and continue development efforts. This included work such as organizing files, updating and maintaining the exhibition calendar, and responding to public inquiry emails. I was also trained in using applications such as The Museum System (TMS), which I used to create object lists, print labels, and pull images for the curators.

One of my biggest projects and accomplishments during my internship was supporting the Friends Group coordinator in developmental research. The Friends of Asian Art Group are members who specifically donate to the Asian Art department. The department hosts special events, art viewings, and other programming for the group. For my project, I researched and gathered 40 years of data on the membership program. I also assisted in gathering information and photos and editing the Friends of Asian Art annual newsletter.

In addition to working in my department, MuSe Interns also co-led two theme-based gallery tours. During the first two weeks of my internship, I trained in museum education, learning about leading open discussions about art works, crowd control, accessibility in museums, and more. Along with my partner, I conducted research on three objects to teach to a small group. Then, I led two gallery tours—one internal to Met staff and one external public tour.

In weekly seminars, we were exposed to various staff panelists and speakers who discussed their department and jobs, and how museum professionals collaborate to plan and support the daily operations of a large museum. We had opportunities to connect with departments outside of our own, speak with the deputy directors, tour conservation labs, and visit closed galleries.

This cooperative education experience was unlike anything I would have ever imagined, and I am beyond thankful for the support and education Drexel and the EAM program have provided me to succeed in such a position. I hope to continue to work in museum management or the fine arts industry for my second co-op this upcoming summer.