Virtual Placements at the Museum

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We are currently putting together final details of two projects for our virtual Museum Studies placements from the University of Leicester. Earlier this year, pre-virus, I submitted a form to host a placement at the Museum this summer focussing on our website and social media. Utilising their enthusiasm and up-to-date knowledge to work with us, whilst gaining an insight into working in a Museum.

Sadly, plans had to change and the opportunities for placement were cancelled. The University contacted me and asked if we would resubmit an application to host students virtually, so I hastily re-wrote the form, and an additional application, on the off-chance we might be successful. And we were. Infact both applications secured three placements for each project - a total of six students. 

The University of Leicester MA in Museums Studies course is world renowned and the course hosts students from across the world. In previous jobs, I have been priviledged to host two American students (at different times!) both of whom I am still in contact with. Last year, the Military Museum hosted Peter, a student from South Korea, who brought his unique style of humour and dedication to complete his project.

This year our students are mainly from China and the USA and of course, due to coronavirus, they have returned back home to take part in their placement virtually. Today, we have been trying to sort out how we can host a meeting with them all living in different time zones! Today, I emailed them all to introduce the Museum and the team, and give them further details of their project. We look forward to working with them over the next eight weeks, learning from their uptodate knowledge whilst giving them some insight into a small but exciting Military Museum.

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