The Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service internship programs allows people with diverse interests, strengths, and goals to experience an educational environment where they can work and learn from professionals in the museum field. SITES offers internship opportunities in a variety of different fields: public relations, development (funding raising), research, and project design. For a list of all SITES exhibitions, please visit our exhibitions page.
This web page explains helps students learn about the application process and what is often expected of Smithsonian interns. Please feel free to email the Laurie Trippett, Internship Coordinator and SITES Assistant Director of Exhibits, if you have additional questions.
Why intern at SITES? Because of the size of our staff, SITES interns have the opportunity to become key players on their respective project teams. In the past, SITES interns have even helped develop publications that reach millions of visitors every year!
Internship applications are accepted throughout the year: spring, summer, fall, and winter. Each application should include the following materials:
- Completed application form (including 500-1000 word essay about why you are seeking a SITES internship, see question #25).
- Two letters of reference
- Resume
Send you completed resume packet to:
Attn: Laurie Trippett, Assistant Director of Exhibits
Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service
PO Box 37012, MRC 706
Washington, DC, 20013-7012
Not sure what to expect or what is required? Take a look at these frequently asked questions.
What kinds of internships does the Museum offer?
SITES offers internships with every aspect of exhibition design and production including publicity, research, and development. Our exhibitions cover diverse topics related to science and natural history, american history, contemporary art, and multiculturalism with special emphasis on Latino, Asian American, African Americans, and Native American topics.
Do I have to know exactly what I want to do?
NO. The Intern Coordinator and others on staff will work with you to help clarify what you might want to learn and how you might go about learning it.
How much time does an internship take?
There is no mandatory time requirement. Some interns choose to devote more hours (from 20-40 hours per week) or stay for longer periods of time (three months or more). Your choices depend on whether there is an appropriate project that coincides with what you want to learn and whether the staff is available to work with you.
Do I need a certain G.P.A to apply?
No. All students can be considered.
Are there deadlines for applications?
No. Rolling deadlines allow for more opportunities to apply.
What will be expected of me if I get the internship?
Just like any other job, students should expect to be on time to work, to be respectful of others in the office, and to recognize that they are representing the Smithsonian. Students will work with one or more SITES mentors and be assigned a task based on the students' interest and the availability and necessity of specified projects.
Can I explore more than one topic or skill?
YES. Upon completion of your primary assignment, you are welcome to stay longer working on additional projects, as long as staff is available to work with you.
Who may apply?
Any individual who is at least sixteen years of age and has completed at least two years of high school is welcome to apply. Most interns are either undergraduate or graduate students from colleges and universities around the world, but student status is not required. The Museum welcomes diversity in age, occupation, nationality, and background within its intern population.
When can I expect to hear back after I've applied?
This varies depending on the time of year you apply.
Do I need to have a specific academic major in order to get an internship?
NO. Because SITES has so many kinds of exhibitions in the road, individuals with many different backgrounds and interests have had successful, productive internships with us. Intern applicants often overlook important museum support positions as well, from administration to information technology to publications and research development.
Can I get college credit for my internship?
The museum does not award college credit itself, but most U.S. colleges and universities will recognize academic work performed while interning at the museum. Contact your school’s registrar or career planning office for more information.
Will I get paid for my internship?
Because of limited funding, all internships at SITES are volunteer positions. Many interns limit their hours and find part-time jobs around D.C. to pay for food and housing. Stipends are available for a limited number of minority internships through the Smithsonian's Office of Fellowships. (202-275-0655)
Where can I stay during my internship?
See the Internship Housing Guide for reference.
How should I dress?
Although SITES is certainly more casual than Capitol Hill, interns should wear appropriate office attire. Even this guideline varies within the Smithsonian itself, but that means none of the following: halter tops, the same t-shirts you wear to the gym, micro mini-skirts, shorts, worn jeans, and/or the clothes you slept in last night. Your best bet is to discuss the matter with your supervisor before packing. Interns always wear ID badges, so it is important to remember that whenever you’re walking around the Mall, you represent the Smithsonian. You don't want to blend in with the tourists!
Want to know more? Contact Laurie Trippett, Assistant Director of Exhibits, 202.633.3102
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