Internship Opportunity for Teens at Japanese American National Museum

Submitted by ksakai on Fri, 05/11/2007 - 15:37.

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM
2007 Junior Docent Internship Program

WHAT IS IT?
The Junior Docent Internship Program is a program specially designed by the Japanese American National Museum for young adult volunteers. Participants will learn Japanese American history through a creative and fun process, learn how to build a Docent-led tour at the National Museum, and be provided with the opportunity to give Docent-led tours to the public. The program provides an excellent opportunity to practice public-speaking skills, team-building skills, assertiveness and time management and increased exposure to the Japanese American culture.

WHEN IS IT?
The program will run from July-August, 2007.

WHAT WILL I DO?
· Learn Japanese American history
· Learn about volunteering at the Japanese American National Museum
· Learn how to build a Docent-led tour of an exhibition at the Japanese American National Museum
· Receive an object handling “white gloves” experience
· Work on a small history project
· Attend special training sessions on weekends and certain weekdays
· Commit to going to the Japanese American National Museum 1-2 times per week on designated days
· Go on a special field trip

HOW IS THE PROGRAM STRUCTURED?
The program begins with a series of training sessions that is required for all new volunteers. The training sessions provide general information about the National Museum and its Volunteer Program, Japanese American History, working with the public, and tips on being an effective Docent. Following training, participants will learn about artifact handling, how to how to build their own guided tour of an exhibition, work on a group project, and have the opportunity to provide guided exhibition tours to the public.

WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?
· High-school or early college student
· Able to complete the entire program
· Strong interpersonal skills
· Participation in the Rising Stars Program is a plus.

WHAT ARE THE SELECTION CRITERIA?
· Interest in further involvement with Japanese American community organizations
· Current enrollment in high school or college
· Oral interview conducted at the Japanese American National Museum
· Up to eight students will be selected to participate in the program

HOW LONG WILL THE PROGRAM LAST AND HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
· The program starts in July and ends in August. Specific training and volunteer days will be worked out with participants
· There is no cost to the participants
· Parking will be provided

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS?
· All application material must be postmarked by May 26, 2007
· Applicants will be notified by May 31, 2007

For an application please contact:

Koji Sakai
Education Department
Japanese American National Museum
369 East 1st Street
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Ksakai@janm.org
Phone: (213) 830-5601
Fax: (213) 830-5672