Being fairly new to the museum community, my first month as the Education and Engagement Assistant has been full of learning. Not only am I learning more about Chilliwack’s history and our current exhibits, I am learning about a new career possibility.
The Chilliwack Museum and Archives snapchat code.
For as long as I can remember, my goal has been to become an elementary school teacher. I enjoy working with kids and I love helping people learn. I am currently working towards a history major at the University of the Fraser Valley. However, as I get closer to finishing my degree, I worry that I won’t be able to embrace history in an elementary classroom as much as I would like. With little interest in teaching middle and secondary grades, I’ve found myself wondering what other job possibilities there are that embrace both education and history. Working along side the Education and Engagement Coordinator has been extremely helpful in teaching me about an amazing career option. Not only does this position let you dive into history, it also provides the opportunity to work with children through the various school programs offered at the museum.
In my first month here, I’ve had the opportunity to take part in many of the different aspects of the position. I’ve helped facilitate some of the school programs, both here at the museum and at the schools. I’ve also participated in several meetings with teachers about an exciting new local history kits project. These meetings are one of my favourite things I’ve been able to take part in. Being able to see and give input on a collaboration between the museum and the teachers is wonderful. It’s made me aware of the various things I could do as a future teacher along with the museum.
Gathering supplies for the Discovery Cupboard update!
I’ve also been able to take part in my own projects, such as creating a museum snapchat (CHWKmuseum). After seeing that various other museums had successful snapchats, such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, I was inspired to create one, hoping to use it as a fun way to interact with the younger generations. The main project I’ve been working on over the past month was updating and revamping our Discovery Cupboard. The Discovery Cupboard is an important part of our museum, as it is designed to provide engaging and hands on bins for kids. I have been working hard to reorganize the content of the bins and have more guided activities in them as well. Be sure to keep up to date with the museum as we will be hosting crafts throughout July and August to highlight our newly updated Discovery Cupboard.
Overall, my first month at the museum has been full of exciting projects, experiences and learning about different career options that combine both history and education. I’m excited to see what more projects and experiences are to come for the rest of the summer.
–Kelsey Ablitt, Education and Engagement Assistant
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