The MOCA Teen Program comprises high school students—juniors and seniors—who are paid to learn about contemporary art and the museum by collaborating on projects, working with artists, and meeting with museum professionals. A MOCA Teen might work with one or more local artists, as well as planning and executing an in-person Teen Night event, online components for Virtual Teen Night, and management of a social media account. This group of arts-interested students will meet at MOCA on Thursday nights and some weekends to work together and support each other on a journey of self-discovery. Please note that contemporary art can involve viewers in exploring imagery and concepts that may elicit confusion and/or discomfort. We view this as an opportunity to learn and we take care to ensure that discussions about difficult topics are constructive and growth-oriented.
Every step in the program is an opportunity for self-reflection and personal expansion. Therefore, our application is designed to not only get information from you but to help you gain experience in applying for other job opportunities as well as colleges or universities in the future.
We typically receive over 100 applicants every year. The selection process takes many factors into account in creating each year’s cohort. First, we read every application, reviewing the essays before looking at the rest of your answers. We then compile a pool of applications that are expressive, indicate passion, and/or enthusiasm, show creative thinking skills, and have a strong interest in the arts. If an applicant has applied to the program before, their previous application essays will also be considered. Next, we select a smaller group of applicants for group and/or individual interviews. After these interviews, we select a balanced group of individuals who can fully commit to the year-long program. We aim to create a group that is diverse in its access to the arts, geographical location, and school. We mostly accept incoming seniors but also admit a few juniors each year.
Please DOWNLOAD, complete, and return this application, by midnight on Sunday, June 2, 2024, to jespinosa@moca.org.
If you complete the application in a web browser, all answers will appear as one line. Downloading the file solves this problem.
We are only accepting online applications.
You will receive a confirmation email that your application has been received. If you do not receive a confirmation email by Wednesday, the week after you submitted your application, email jespinosa@ moca.org. Please note that this is a paid museum staff position and selected participants will be required to show their legal right to work and a work permit when the program begins in September.
For more information, you can contact jespinosa@moca.org and mantonisse@moca.org
