There are several different categories to find summer internships in. The primary arts disciplines traditionally include the visual arts, theater, music and dance. These broad sectors of artistic professions can be broken down into smaller, more distinct areas. For example, dance internships are not typically found in general dance-related organizations. Instead they may be with a ballet company, modern dance troupe or fold dance ensemble. Likewise, music internships may be found in many different subsets such as chamber ensembles, jazz groups or symphonies and orchestras.
Aside from the obvious division between paid and unpaid internships, there are many different types of arts opportunities available to students during the summer. After selecting a discipline (i.e., dance, theater, music or visual arts), students can opt for one of the many different job-related categories of internship. These focus on a specific area in which professionals work in the field and may include specialties such as marketing, development or public relations. Additionally, some types of internships may be distinctly tied to the arts area. Visual arts internships may include work in different departments such as curatorial or conservation while theater-related opportunities may exist in directing or technical aspects.
The first step to finding a summer arts internship is to assess your interests. This may be an area that you have already tried out, tied to your major or something new. Consult your school's guidance or internship coordinator for information on your options. High school students should speak to a professional in the guidance office or a knowledgeable teacher. College students may need to seek out a departmental coordinator, an advisor or a specific faculty member in one of the arts departments. Additionally, internship websites, arts organization sites and family members or friends in the arts professions can help direct your search.
Starting your summer arts internship may be filled with nervous excitement surrounding what to expect and what your real duties and opportunities will be. Before beginning, make a list of what you want to gain from this experience or accomplish by the end of the summer. Brainstorm specific ideas that tie to your area of interest. For example, if you are interning for the marketing department of a ballet company, you may want to learn how to acquire print or online media contacts, advertise an entire dance season or promote performances. Go into the internship with realistic expectations that will help you to learn and discover your chosen arts field and help you to grow as a pre-professional.