Museology Communications and Marketing Assistant Xavier Lucas-Cooper (’27) spoke with Evelyn Manchester (’27) about her work study experience at the Burke Museum.
What is your academic background and how did that draw you to your position in the Burke?
I wanted to work at the Burke because I love collections work and wanted to gain experience with a new type of collection! My academic background is in anthropology collections, primarily arts and culture, meaning this is the first time that I’ve worked with a purely archaeological collection and it’s been wonderful!
How does your work in the Burke mirror what you learn in the classes you’re taking this quarter? If not, in what ways does your work supplement your classes?
I’m currently taking a collections management class that has been a great refresher on best practices. I’ve found that archaeological collections work varies greatly from other types, so the opportunity to learn this type through my position has been incredibly helpful in better developing my personal practice.
How does your work at the Burke relate to your future career goals?
Eventually, I’d like to be a collections manager! Trying out archaeological collections work has helped me better determine what kind of collection I’d like to work with in the future and new methods that will be useful for my future work.
What is your favorite part of your work at the Burke?
My favorite part of my work is that I get to learn something new every day! Whether it’s from the collection itself, related documents, or my co-workers, I love that every day is new and interesting.