Montclair History Center (MHC) has once again welcomed a dynamic group of summer interns to help with research, collections, educational, and administrative tasks to help support our mission.

While our organization is small, our goals and passions are mighty, and we are grateful for the contributions each of these interns is making. Our summer interns bring personality, insight, diversity of study, and commitment to the organization. We are happy to highlight each individual and their contributions and endeavors.

Claire Labady, Communications/Marketing Intern

Claire Labady joins Montclair History Center as a Marketing/Communications Intern from Rutgers University. Claire is participating in the Rutgers RSSI program and is currently studying Criminal Justice and Entrepreneurship with the goal of becoming a attorney.

When asked about a project that Claire has enjoyed working on as an intern, Claire reflected on a project called “Faces of Montclair”. Claire followed: “I enjoy it because it allows us to interact and learn about different members of the community from different backgrounds.”

Donnie Mason joins MHC as a Collections Intern from Rutgers University. Donnie is participating in the Rutgers RSSI program and is currently studying History at Rutgers University – Newark. Donnie has ambitions to become a history professor and researcher focusing on the 20th and 21st century world.

When asked what made Donnie want to pursue an internship with MHC, Donnie said: “ I was looking for an internship where I could gain professional experience while exploring the field of history. In my Collections Internship with the Montclair History Center, I have found both of those, as I can research local history while learning valuable skills.” One of those valuable skills Donnie has been developing here includes learning to use the PastPerfect system. Donnie shared, “PastPerfect is commonly used in museums to manage their collections. It was a completely new program for me, but I have been able to learn how to use it and the various tools it provides.”

Barry Crentsil, Marketing/Communications Intern

Barry Crentsil joins Montclair History Center as a Marketing/Communications Intern. Barry is part of the Elevate to Eleven Plus program. Barry has a degree in Art, Science, and Innovation.

When asked to reflect on different skills that Barry has been able to build on and develop as a Marketing/Communications Intern this summer, Barry said: “My position relies on me having the technical skills like video editing and graphic design but besides that my communication skills have been slowing getting better as I open up about new content and ideas that MHC can start implementing to help increase local engagement.”

Owen Lockwood joins Montclair History Center as a Collections Intern. Owen has a dual degree from St. John’s University in History and Art History, while pursuing his Master’s in Museum Administration. An ideal position for Owen would be to work as a work as an archivist, curator, or researcher in Historical Arms and Armor.

When asked what surprised Owen about Montclair History Center, Owen said: “I was genuinely surprised by how much the interns and staff interact with one another. Everybody is wonderful, and it’s nice to talk to and collaborate with people on projects consistently.” Owen also offered some advice to prospective interns, saying: “Don't be afraid to reach out. Museums can look intimidating from the outside, but I've found they are usually very willing to get people involved. Try and apply to internships where your skills are tailored to or in an area you’re interested in. If you need to, don’t be afraid to volunteer as well. They can open doors in the future for internships.”

Arjun Chityala joins Montclair History Center as a high school Collections Intern. Arjun aspires to double major in history and political science to become a policy advisor.

When asked what made Arjun want to pursue an internship with MHC, Arjun said: “I chose to pursue an internship with the Montclair History Center because it provided exactly what I was looking for. I wanted to work with collections and do something with history over the summer.” A project that Arjun has enjoyed working on so far includes working on making sure the library has all the books listed in the catalog, learning about Montclair and New Jersey, and expanding his history knowledge in the process.