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How can I build connections within the museum industry as a college student?

I'm currently a high school senior planning on attending George Washington University starting in the Fall of 2025, with a major in art history. My dream is to work on creating exhibits for a museum/gallery but I've heard that the field is super competitive and that job opportunities are limited. I want to start networking so that I can find my dream job, but I'm not sure where to start.

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Emily’s Answer

Hi! Two options I'd recommend:

1) Researching internship and/or volunteer opportunities at galleries and museums that you're interested in working for. Even if the position itself isn't exactly what you want to be doing, this would allow you to make important connections and get to know the company you want to work at. It can be easier to move to the position you truly want once you get your foot in the door.

2) Consider internship and/or volunteer opportunities doing exhibit curation/creation for smaller businesses. If you aren't able to find opportunities at galleries or museums, it would be beneficial to get professional experience at other types of companies. This way, you'll be able to gain relevant experience and build skills to succeed when you do transition to exhibit creation at galleries/museums.
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Arielle’s Answer

Great question! There are many different ways you can network. One of my favorite is to reach out to people on LinkedIn who have the job I want! Even if you do not know them, people are often receptive to providing you with advice and helping you learn more about what they do. Don't approach the conversation by asking for a job; instead, approach with curiosity. You can even write something similar to what you wrote in this post: "Hello, my name is Evyn. I'm a freshman studying art history interested in [interests]. I see you work in [work], and I would love to pursue a similar career one day. Would you be willing to have a quick chat with me about any advice you have pursuing a career in this industry?" They will give you advice and perhaps even connect you with other people in their network who may align more closely with your interests. Another way to network is to attend conferences in your industry. It is great to be able to meet people face-to-face, ask them questions about what they do, learn more about important topics in your industry, and build relationships. Regardless of your industry, networking is the most important part of your career, so it is great that you are already thinking about building your network. Don't be discouraged if some people aren't very responsive, and be sure to maintain the relationships you do build.

Congratulations on your upcoming graduation, and good luck with the next steps in your journey!
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Stacey’s Answer

My daughter earned her degree in History. While in high school and during her college years, she volunteered many hours at local museums. This helped her make connections she could use after graduation to keep working in her field. I recommend finding any chance to get involved, maybe with a part-time job at an art gallery or, as mentioned before, volunteering in museums.
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Cathleen’s Answer

Start by volunteering or seeking internships at museums that interest you. This will help you make connections you can rely on when you graduate or begin job hunting.
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Davielle’s Answer

Hi Evyn, thank you for submitting your interesting question. My work team and I answered this as a group activity. Here are our responses:

Internships help provide experience in the field. Look into FB Museum groups. Maybe look into an entry level position - gift shop.

Use Linkedin about your interests, can be a great networking tool. Finding the community versus the job.

Broaden your definition of museums; they are not always visual art galleries.

Do what you love, the money will find you. Are you truly passionate about this area? If so, you'll find your way.
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