The Valentine offers year-round, funded undergraduate and graduate level internships. The program strives to provide equitable access to hands-on, project-based experiences in the museum field. See below for a list of current internship opportunities, as well as more information on how to apply.

How to Apply

Please read through the eligibility, deadline and stipend information, as well as the internship descriptions below. To apply, fill out the Summer 2023 Internship Application and upload a resume, cover letter, unofficial school transcript and writing sample using the online form.

Summer 2023 Internship Application

Eligibility

Internships are open to students currently enrolled in an undergraduate, certificate or graduate program. Recent graduates are also welcome to apply – but if you have been out of school for 9 months or more, we encourage you to explore our volunteer opportunities.

Deadlines

To be considered for our Summer 2023 internship opportunities, please submit your materials by 11:59 PM on Sunday, March 12, 2023.

Stipends

Thanks to generous donors including the Kip Kephart Foundation, the Valentine is able to provide $1,500 stipends to all interns upon successful completion of their internship.

Internship Schedules

Interns work during the business week, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9:00 am and 4:30 pm. Schedules are arranged between the intern and their supervisor, with an expectation of 10-20 hours per week.

Benefits

Benefits include: 10% discounts in the Museum Store, free admission to the Valentine Galleries during the internship period, and free parking at the MCV Hospital and Museum visitor parking deck.

Questions

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Sophia McCrimmon, Visitor Services & Volunteer Programs Manager, at smccrimmon@thevalentine.org or (804) 649-0711 ext. 351.

Summer 2023 Internship Opportunities 

Advancement 

This intern will gain hands-on experience with nonprofit development work, donor relations, and event planning as a member of the Valentine’s advancement team. Projects include organizing community events such as a summer concert series, executing a donor stewardship campaign, and managing constituent records.  

Full description here: 2023 Advancement Internship

Valentine Studio Guest Register Project 

This intern will begin a transcription of two guest books detailing the visitors to the studio of Richmond artist Edward Valentine (1838-1930). Projects include transcribing the guest books, organizing their data in a spreadsheet, researching notable visitors, and compiling a map of their hometowns.

Full description here: 2023 Studio Internship

Visitor Services 

This intern will provide a new and creative perspective on the 1812 Wickham House by developing a specialty tour for families with elementary-aged children. By conducting research on museum education and thinking creatively about house museums as teaching tools, this student will generate a ‘Family Friendly Wickham House Tour’ to be offered upon request. 

Full description here: 2023 Visitor Services Internship

“This experience provided the hands-on experience I needed to operationalize so much of what I learned in classes.”  Summer 2018 Archives Intern

“The environment for interns was incredibly welcoming, I felt that I was able to have thought provoking and friendly conversations with people in all different departments.”  Summer 2018 Public Relations Intern

“Throughout everyday work I was always well informed as to what was expected of me that day and that week.  I always felt supported and like my voice was heard if I was struggling with something or if I had an opinion about a certain task.  I received constant feedback as well as encouragement.”  Spring 2018 Museum Education Intern

“I truly appreciated how the staff treated me as an equal worker.  This instilled valuable professional respect and confidence in my experience…I valued my opportunity to productively contribute to the museum’s mission through my individualized projects.”  Summer 2017 General Collections Intern

“”I like that I could pitch ideas and be listened to.  I also appreciated the flexibility around my academic schedule.”  Fall 2019 Marketing Intern