We wanted to introduce our readership to some of the people who make our programs happen. This summer we’re lucky to have a couple of interns helping with our fall programs. Today, Hilary Amnah answers a few questions for our blog…
Q: Tell us a little about yourself, your background and what do you do at the Dill Pickle Club.
A: Currently, I am a graduate student at the University of Oregon in the Arts and Administration program with a Community Arts concentration. For the past 6 months, I’ve been working with the Oregon Folklife Network as a work-study student, and will continue to work there next academic year as a GRF.
As an undergad at OSU (the Buckeye one), I got my first taste of arts management as a student employee at the OSU Urban Arts Space. I graduated with a BA in Music and History of Art minor. After a short stint in law school, I dropped out and began working at an art gallery in Dayton, OH. During my three years in Dayton, I had the wonderful privilege of volunteering with We Care Arts. I also volunteered at an assisted living community for seniors with a group of spirited women poker-players. Lacking any career direction, I thought I’d give graduate school another try—this time with an area that aligned with my personal and professional interests—and ended up in Oregon.
I am serving as a summer intern for the Dill Pickle Club, primarily working on a recurring tour series that will begin in August. I also frequently visit Kinkos to make copies — the essential intern responsibility.
More after the jump…
Q: How did you find out about the organization?
A: I first heard about the Dill Pickle Club through a coworker at the Oregon Folklife Network. Buzz about the organization was going around through students I knew in both the Folklore and Arts & Administration programs, especially those who were familiar with the city of Portland. Basically, it was all word-of-mouth from people I greatly respect.
Q: What do you appreciate about the organization? What drew you to volunteer with us?
A: After hearing a few things here and there, I did a little research about DPC when looking for a place to complete a summer internship. Since the DPC is a grassroots, cultural organization focused on community engagement, it seemed like a perfect fit for my interests. I appreciate DPC’s ability to create successful, inclusive programming that promotes civic dialogue in informal environments.
Q: What programs are you looking forward to and why?
A: I am most looking forward to all of the tours. Since I am largely unfamiliar with Portland, the tours will provide me with a better understanding of Portland as a city, and as a community. I also anticipate working with the various community leaders and learning about their areas of expertise as they guide their respective tours.
Thanks Hilary! Look for more on Hilary’s work with our Recurring Tours program in the near future…
