This graduate student intern will contribute to research and writing projects related to individuals from the history of the Spanish American War, the Philippine American War, and the Annexation of Hawai‘i for the History Department at the National Portrait Gallery. Much of the intern’s responsibilities will support object research for an exhibition. The intern’s duties will include conducting secondary and primary source research on exhibition objects, including the biographies of individuals involved in these conflicts. The intern will be expected to register for a public history internship course (from 1-3 credits) at FIU’s Department of History.
Please submit all materials to WPHL Deputy Director, Dr. Julio Capó, Jr. (jcapo@fiu.edu). Feel free to contact him with any questions as well.
Intern Expectations
- This internship will require demonstration of the following skill sets:
- Ability to conduct historical research using primary-source materials and scholarly resources available online (peer-reviewed journal articles, scholarly research databases, etc.)
- Accuracy and attention to detail in documenting information; strong writing and communication skills
- Ability to execute responsibilities independently and to meet deadlines
- Curiosity to learn about both well-known and underrecognized figures and events from the past
- Experience with Microsoft Office applications (i.e., Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Interest in learning about museum careers by attending department meetings and taking part in any relevant Smithsonian-wide internship activities and workshops
Preferred Skills
Preference will be given to graduate students with the ability to read and write in Spanish. The ideal candidate would have a demonstrated interest in the history of the Spanish American War, including its pre-conflict contexts and its lasting influences.
Learning Objectives
This internship will provide an excellent opportunity to conduct high-level historical and object-based research and to assist with the development of exhibition content for a prestigious museum. The intern will cultivate valuable organizational and communication skills and will gain experience that will help prepare them for a career in museums or public history.
Term
200 hours during the Spring 2022 semester (which may be completed by the end of May); roughly 15 hours per week.
Pay
$6,000
Applying and Deadline
Applicants Must Submit the Following to Dr. Julio Capó, Jr. (jcapo@fiu.edu) by Wednesday, December 22, 2021, by 5:00 pm ET:
- Resume/CV
- Transcripts (unofficial transcripts will suffice)
- A short essay about why you are a good fit for this position (roughly 250-300 words)