Sana Al-louzi
Film Studies
Why did you want to undertake an internship, and why did you select the internship you did?
I’ve always been a hands-on learner, and I knew before starting university that I wanted to take on an internship at some point. I felt as though having internship experience would help me figure out what I wanted to do post-grad and prepare me for the working in the field. I became interested in art auctions last year, and I wanted to learn more about how they work and the various roles involved. My position at Cowley Abbott ensured that I was exposed to many different aspects of an art auction house, and I was supported every step of the way.
Why did you choose Arts & Humanities at Western?
I chose Arts and Humanities because I had heard great things about their Art History and Museum Studies program. I was especially interested in the internship opportunities in the arts that Western provided, which I had learnt about at my local university fair.
What is the most valuable lesson you learned during your internship?
The most valuable lesson I learned is that the arts is such a large and diverse field, so you should always keep an open mind and an openness to learn new things! When I came to Western, I was set on using my degree to go into museum curation. By interning at Cowley Abbott, I was able to explore a completely new field that I ended up enjoying, and it inspired me to take my education and career path in a new direction.
What are your plans after graduation, and how has your internship helped you to advance those plans?
My post-graduation plan is to go to graduate school to get a master’s degree. My internship has undoubtably helped me advance those plans, as I plan to apply to Art Business programs to continue my art auction education. I am lucky enough to have made great connections while at Cowley Abbott who have helped me with my post-graduate plans by giving me advice and personal experience stories. My internship will also undoubtably help my application, as I will have had hands-on experience in the field.
What advice would you give to incoming Arts and Humanities students? Would you recommend undertaking an internship to other students? If so, why?
Explore all your program has to offer and take advantage of that! Whether it’s internship opportunities, practicum classes, or clubs, having hands-on experience is always a great asset to carry with you post-grad. Do not hesitate to talk with your professors or other faculty staff if you have questions about your program or what it offers you, they are here to help!
