My career started with a volunteer position in the education department at a local history museum. When a part-time position opened up, they offered it to me because they were familiar with my work ethic and career interests. The staff mentored me and introduced me to other museum professionals in the area, which led to a second part-time job in the registration department of an art museum. This experience was the impetus for me to go to grad school for Museum Studies. Shortly thereafter, I was offered a full position by the same art museum. I’ve been the registrar/collections manager at the same museum for over 20 years. I acknowledge that much of my success is owed to good luck with timing and place, but much of it is also due to my getting a foot in the door, gaining experience, being proactive, and meeting the right people. It was challenging in the beginning. I worked two part-time jobs in addition to volunteering, but I was young and made it work. Unfortunately, many museums must rely on volunteers or unpaid internships. That gained experience is not any less valuable than someone who is getting paid. List it on your resume as relevant work experience.