Digital Publishing Editor, Research and Publishing, Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture & Heritage

I moved to Wellington to start a graduate diploma in Museum and Heritage studies in 2013, after feeling adrift and displaced by the Christchurch earthquakes. I remember feeling very nervous when ringing Annie to ask questions about the programme! But the staff could not have been more supportive and welcoming, and my studies opened the door to opportunities across the GLAM sector (helpful if you’re still figuring out where you’re heading).

I completed two placements, one at Pātaka which introduced me to exhibition installation and curatorial practice; and one at Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage, where I researched and wrote ‘War Stories’ about New Zealanders involved in WWI. Two of the stories were televised: one on the plastic surgeons Pickerill & Gillies and the other on conscientious objector Mark Briggs.

It can be difficult to find permanent, full-time positions in the GLAM sector – and I was really lucky to find work at both of the institutions where I had done my internships. I juggled several contract jobs for a year after graduating, before starting work at Pātaka as the Exhibitions Officer. It was a challenging and varied role, and I met and worked with some amazing people – including my colleagues, as well as artists, students and community groups.

It can be difficult to find permanent, full-time positions in the GLAM sector – and I was really lucky to find work at both of the institutions where I had undertaken internships. I juggled several contract jobs for a year after graduating, before starting work at Pataka Art + Museum as the Exhibitions Officer. It was a challenging and varied role, and I met and worked with some amazing people – including my colleagues, as well as artists, students and community groups.

After two years I moved to my current role at MCH as a Digital Publishing Editor. I work on MCH sites like Te Ara and NZHistory, as well as assisting with various projects across the Research and Publishing team. It’s a very supportive place and I have been encouraged to take on new opportunities, including a secondment at National Library. It’s also been cool to meet new Museum and Heritage Studies students doing their internships at MCH!

If I had to give any advice, it would be to appreciate and nurture the relationships with your classmates (and others in your life!), as it’s so important to have a support system. Those connections will stand you in good stead in your working life, too. The GLAM sector is creative, vital and vibrant – but it can also be underpaid and overworked. Take care of your mental health, be kind to yourself and others, and don’t worry if you’re not sure what path to take… the wonderful Alison Parr (former Oral Historian at MCH) once told me, a young intern brimming with self-doubt, that “nothing is ever wasted.”

I’m grateful to the MHST team for their support, and to all of the incredible people across the sector who have shared their time and knowledge with me. Aroha nui x