Davis Museum Student Visitor Assistants (SVAs) Program Spring 2024

Who are we? Davis Museum Student Visitor Assistants (SVAs) are current Wellesley College students who are committed to sharing the Davis’s rich permanent collections and special exhibitions with the public and the College. A background in art is not required; students of all majors are encouraged to apply!

What do we do? SVAs are scheduled to work about 8 hours a week, focussing on in-person gallery engagement and participate in cross-training with Davis Museum Student Guides. 

Davis SVAs assist the Davis Guides as an active virtual presence for the Davis's remote programming. They will interact with the College community and general public on various levels.

SVAs are required to attend remote and onsite training sessions on the Museum’s permanent collections and exhibitions, as well as fire safety and emergency response, and to complete required readings of assigned articles about the collections and current exhibitions. Plus, watch safety training videos.

Why do we do it? Students join the SVA program because they are enthusiastic about sharing art and the Davis with others. Participation in the SVA program has many other benefits, including: 

• Behind-the-scenes experiences with Davis Museum curators and staff
• Excellent preparation for arts, museum, and education careers
• Training in object-based and informal learning
• Fun and interesting way to meet and collaborate with fellow students 

How do we do it? SVAs receive regular training on the collections, temporary exhibitions, museum education theory, and touring strategies from Davis Museum curators and staff. 

When do we do it? New SVAs participate in weekly training sessions during the academic year. Trained SVAs participate in ongoing training sessions bi-weekly or monthly during the academic year. Most trainings take place on Thursdays during Community Time from 1:15 pm-2:10 pm.

Job Requirements: As representatives of both the Museum and the College, SVAs must be alert, conscientious, friendly, have effective communication skills, and enjoy speaking to the public. The position may require walking and standing for up to 3 hours at a time. The uniform is a required Davis Museum t-shirt which is provided. 

Interested students must apply through Workday by submitting a cover letter and resume. 

Questions? Contact Ann Penman, Manager of Museum Security and Visitor Experience: ann.penman@wellesley.edu, 781.283.2118