Three Smithsonian Interns designed exhibits for the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History as part of the Smithsonian Affiliate Digital Learning and Engagement Internship
The Smithsonian Affiliate Digital Learning and Engagement Internship, structured as an entirely virtual experience, introduced 75 rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in college to the impact of museum work and empowered students to address complex global challenges. Purposefully designed as a collaborative virtual opportunity, the internship provided access to high-quality, paid learning experiences for a diverse group of college students regardless of their physical location.
Over the course of the summer, three interns worked with staff at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History to design innovative, educational modules, or collections to be published for the museum’s audience. Their exhibits explore diverse topics including the history of vaccinations, global warming, and the history of the protest movement in Texas.
“I was most drawn by the comprehensive learning aspect of the Internship,” said Melanie Gong, a rising Sophomore at Columbia University who participated in the program. Her exhibit, Climate Catastrophe, explores the effects of global warming and its disastrous impacts on the environment. “I hope people will be able to engage with the exhibit and walk away with a better understanding of Global Warming and the importance of our collective effort in combating the ‘Climate Catastrophe.’”
Rowan Hough, a rising senior at University of Washington, also participated in the program. Her exhibit uses artifacts, images, and videos to showcase the power of protest in Texas History. “My favorite part has been learning how to curate a collection and creating the content for the exhibit,” said Rowan. “It taught me how to use new methods to communicate and how to tailor the collection to different groups.”
Nicholas Lavy, a rising senior at the University of Akron in Ohio, described how his coursework influenced his exhibit on the history of vaccines. “In both my economics and psychology courses, the impact of COVID and its corresponding vaccines has been a heavy focus over the past year and a half,” said Nicholas, who is pursuing a dual degree in economics and psychology. “I wanted to focus on how history can guide the present in regard to the economic and social-psychological impacts of pandemics and vaccinations.”
Melanie, Rowan, and Nicholas will each have the opportunity to visit the Museum to see their exhibits on display in August and September. These digital exhibits will be added to the library of topics available for presentation to the public and for field trip visits.
Throughout the internship, the Smithsonian was the connector between the interns, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, and Emerson Collective, providing access to experts, conversations with Smithsonian leadership and enrichment opportunities that engaged the students with each other and their Affiliate organization. Emerson Collective provided programming opportunities that helped facilitate conversations between interns and leaders in areas such as education, immigration, and racial justice.
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is proud to partner with community sponsors to provide airfare and accommodations for the Smithsonian interns. Accommodations for the interns are provided by Aloft Fort Worth Downtown and airfare is provided by American Airlines.
Photo Caption: Photo of intern Melanie Gong, an undergraduate at Columbia University, in front of a few of the displays that were a part of her digital exhibit on climate change. Credit: Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
About Smithsonian Affiliations
Smithsonian Affiliations is a national outreach program that develops long-term, collaborative partnerships with museums, educational and cultural organizations to share Smithsonian collections, build collaborative networks and engage learners of all ages with Smithsonian resources. More information is available at affiliations.si.edu.
About Smithsonian Learning Lab
Smithsonian Learning Lab is an interactive website for the discovery and creative use of the Smithsonian’s digital collections and tools—more than a million images, videos, texts, audio recordings and activities. More information is available at learninglab.si.edu.
About Emerson Collective
Emerson Collective focuses on creating systemic change in education, immigration, climate and cancer research and treatment. More information is available at emersoncollective.com.
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, a distinguished institution established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and proudly holds Affiliate status with the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by a diverse and enriching collection spanning science and history, the museum is committed to lifelong learning. Engaging visitors through vibrant programs and exhibits, it interprets the rich tapestry of Texas and the Southwest. The museum’s commitment to education is reflected in its innovative programs, designed to inspire and educate learners of all ages. From interactive workshops to immersive exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic environment for curiosity and intellectual growth. For more information about educational programs, exhibits, and events, visit www.fwmuseum.org.
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