How to Get an Internship at Colonial Williamsburg

No other place teaches people early American history quite like Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. But the United States' largest living history museum also provides learning opportunities for students. At any time, thousands of archaeologists, historians and researchers study Colonial Williamsburg. Follow these steps to get an internship at Colonial Williamsburg.

Instructions

1. Understand that the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation operates Colonial Williamsburg with the College of William and Mary. The Williamsburg Collegiate Program provides internships for interdisciplinary study in early American history, museum studies and material culture.

2. Know that internships are available to both undergraduate and graduate students with any major. Originally organized for William and Mary students, the program was opened to students from other universities in 2005.

3. Apply for an internship through the College of William and Mary if you are enrolled as a student there. You can receive and submit an application through the National Institute of American History & Democracy on campus. By telephone, call [phone].

4. Submit a complete application if you attend another college or university to the Director of the National Institute of American History & Democracy, P.O. Box 8795, College of William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795. Your application must include college transcripts and at least one letter of recommendation.

5. Spend time explaining why and how an internship at Colonial Williamsburg could benefit your studies. While the general application is only one page, you also must submit a letter that explains how an internship will help you reach your educational goals.

6. Request an internship through Colonial Williamsburg's Department of Archaeological Research if your interests run toward archeology. Colonial historical archeology study offers two tracks. One allows students to work with professionals in excavation and analysis. Another option is a specific research project approved through your home university.

7. Include a resume and at least two letters of recommendation if you apply to Colonial Williamsburg Department of Archaeological Research. If the internship is for college credit, one of the letters of reference must be from a current professor where you study.
   Mail complete applications to: Department of Archaeological Research; Colonial Williamsburg Foundation; P.O. Box 1776; Williamsburg, VA 23187.

Tips & Warnings

• College credit for an archeology internship must come from your home school, as Colonial Williamsburg does not offer college credit.

• If accepted, be prepared to arrange for your tuition and living expenses. Some financial aid opportunities exist in addition to low-cost housing.

Resources

• Find out more about Colonial Williamsburg at its official site.