Internships

Its that time of year when many students are preparing to apply for summer internships. I always talk to my students about the importance of internships. Art students do not typically think of them as an essential step in their education - so I try hard to explain the benefits (which are extensive!). I had a boss once who used to say that even if you did not enjoy your internship at least you learned about what you don't want to do with your future. He was so right!

Ultimately, internships offer the chance to gain so much on-the-job- experience that can help shape the direction you take your career. Its a chance to dive into something you love - or something you want to learn more about. There are internships to work directly with photographers on shoots, or in their office on the business/organization side of things. There are internships in photography galleries/museums, educational facilities, post-production studios and not-for-profits. There is so much opportunity out there for students with a desire to learn and work hard.

There are many opportunities within venues and artist studios in the city but there is also quite a few options in our region. The Center for Photography at Woodstock is one of the Hudson Valley's gems for many reasons - one beings its internship opportunities. CPW offers two outstanding internship programs. You can read more about them here.

It is important to go into it ready to take on any challenge and work very hard (for free or for very little). The truth is, you may not get paid in cash for your work and dedication but you will get paid in experience, contacts, knowedge and fun.