The Texas Historical Commission (THC) is now accepting applications for the Preservation Scholars Program for summer 2019. The program is an eight-week, paid, summer internship opportunity available to undergraduate and graduate students interested in learning about the field of historic preservation and gaining hands-on experience. The deadline for applications and supporting documents is March 22, 2019.
The Friends of the Texas Historical Commission (FTHC) created the Preservation Scholars Program to build interest in, and awareness of, careers in historic preservation, specifically among students from underrepresented cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Whether studying history, anthropology, architecture, material sciences, graphic design, literature, economics, or accounting, students interested in learning more about how their specialization or area of study can be applied to historic preservation are encouraged to apply.
Working with THC staff, Preservation Scholars will learn about the impact that preservation programs can have on a community’s development and will gain exposure to various exciting vocational opportunities in the field of historic preservation. Scholars will work under the supervision of THC staff at the agency’s headquarters in Austin and/or in the field at THC historic sites and with local preservation partners. During their time at the agency, scholars will complete a rotation among all THC divisions headquartered in Austin to better understand the interdisciplinary nature of historic preservation, and will complete a special project based on the student’s primary area of interest. More information on specific internship projects available for summer 2019 can be found at the link below.
Preservation Scholars will receive a $5,000 stipend provided by the FTHC for an eight-week internship (40-hour week). Brief progress reports will be required, both during the internship period and upon conclusion, and scholars will be required to make a presentation to the FTHC Board of Trustees.
To apply, students must meet all eligibility requirements, determine their top three divisions/internship projects, complete the online application, and submit official transcripts and two letters of reference (click here for explanatory letter to be given to your referrals). Transcripts and references may be sent directly to Preservation Scholars Program – Texas Historical Commission, P.O. Box 12276, Austin, TX 78711. All materials must be postmarked by March 22, 2019.
For more information, contact Sara Allen, THC Human Resources Project Coordinator by email.