The halfway point of the internship is the perfect time to reflect on the experience thus far and expectations, met, missed and to come. NMAL is one of the newest of the Smithsonian museums, waiting for Congressional approval of a site to build on. It works on a hybrid model, with the preponderance of its exhibits online and a gallery in the National Museum of American History.

Even peripherally, the experience of learning how an idea becomes a museum has been educational. From its roots in a report on Latinos and Latino history in the Smithsonian to reading the authorizing legislation, I am thinking about all the actions that have to occur creating a museum. The legislation in particular was interesting, as it permitted the establishment of the museum, its related boards and fundraising. Even as I watched the National Museum of African-American History and Culture physically being constructed, I had never really given much thought to how it all starts.

I wonder if I am meeting expectations, as I sometimes feel like I am chasing the assignments. I am making progress on my online exhibit, but feel it should be done already. I have spoken with my supervisor, who assured me we are on track, however I would like to be further along.

For this semester, my expectations are to complete the digital exhibit, although it is clear that it may not be published for some time. I am looking forward to the mapping project, which will involve learning about music and the locations that are important in song.

The experience overall has been great and I look forward to continuing to develop this semester.