Embedded Files
Leo Colletta
Leo Colletta
Hi everyone! My name is Leo Colletta and I am a third year History and Politics Major. This year I have been working as the Assistant Education Coordinator at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History (MAH). I am very interested in history, public service, and public education. After graduation I hope to continue my education with a PhD in History or a Masters in International Relations. I hope to make an impact working in research, teaching, or the civil service.
About The MAH
About The MAH
The Museum of Art and History is a fixture of the community here in Santa Cruz. With the support of my mentor Oscar Paz, I have worked to further the MAH's goals of community education, community building, and presentation of diverse perspectives. I had the pleasure of coordinating, creating, and giving lessons on fundamental and developmental topics to Santa Cruz's youth, showcasing five unique art and history exhibits over the course of the year.
How does this internship apply to your academic journey in the humanities?
How does this internship apply to your academic journey in the humanities?
Working at the MAH has not only helped me to develop new professional skills, but has given me a whole new possible pathway to pursue, one which I hadn't really given too much thought about prior to the fellowship. I have been able to use the theoretical knowledge of the practice of history that I have gained through my academics in an important but challenging way. Whereas in the classroom I am the student, in the museum I became the teacher. In this position I have been able to put many of the skills I have gained in the classroom, such as public speaking, historical knowledge, and research to practical use serving my community.
Projects!
Projects!
During the fellowship I had the wonderful opportunity to develop my skills in dynamic and unique ways. For example, together with Bronwyn and Morgan, the other fellows at the MAH, we coordinated, planned, and advertised a special tour of the museum for the other students in the fellowship program. Furthermore, I was given the opportunity to take the lead on planning the Museums showing at the Santa Cruz Pride Parade. I choreographed a dance for us to do during the march, and will serve as a monitor during the parade. You can click the image below to read more about my work at the MAH!
Reflections on working with The MAH
Reflections on working with The MAH
Working at the MAH has been such a wonderful experience. It has not only allowed me to gain work experience in my major, and to see the practical application of the things I'm learning in the classroom, but it has allowed me to truly feel like a member of the Santa Cruz community. I have learned more about the history of Santa Cruz, I've learned about the local school systems, and I've taught many of the students in the area. Working with the students has been one of the most impactful aspects of the fellowship. While I know years from now the students may forget the content of the lesson I gave, and the art activity they did, I know that I have contributed their education, provided a positive environment for them to learn and explore in, and helped foster an appreciation for the arts and the humanities. Through the fellowship I have been able to develop my professional skills in public speaking, event planning and coordination, and ethical leadership.
Page updated
Report abuse