. Mercy Heritage Center (MHC), established in 2011 in Belmont, North Carolina, serves as the central repository for the historical records of Mercy communities across the United States. The center preserves and provides access to archival materials that document the rich history of the Sisters of Mercy and their mission-driven work. MHC is committed to upholding professional archival and museum standards while fostering educational opportunities for those interested in historical preservation, archival studies, and cultural heritage.

Description of the Internship

The Archives Intern will work closely with certified archivists and gain hands-on experience in the fields of archives and museum studies. This internship provides an introduction to professional archival standards and practices while allowing the intern to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. Primary responsibilities include:

• Working with archival records, artifacts, and historical displays.
• Assisting with digitization projects and learning associated digital workflows.
• Gaining foundational knowledge of archival theory and collection management.
• Conducting research related to women’s history, religious history, and American history.
• Participating in outreach initiatives to engage the community with the center’s collections.

Internship Location

The internship is in-person at Mercy Heritage Center, 720 Heritage Center Place, Belmont, NC 28012. An in-person format is essential due to the hands-on nature of archival work, including handling delicate historical materials, utilizing specialized equipment, and engaging in preservation activities that cannot be conducted remotely

Preferred Student Demographics & Qualifications

Ideal candidates will be undergraduate or graduate students pursuing degrees in history, archival studies, museum studies, library science, or related fields. Preference will be given to students with:

• Relevant coursework or interest in archival arrangement, collection management, and museum studies.
• A strong understanding of 19th & 20th-century U.S. history.
• Knowledge of research methodologies and the use of primary source materials.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and reliability.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, database management, and digitization tools.
• The ability to lift up to 40 pounds when working with collections.

Student Benefits & Learning Experience

Interns will gain:

• Hands-on experience with archival records, digital preservation, and collection management.
• Professional exposure to archival theory and museum operations.
• Enhanced research skills in historical documentation and primary source analysis.
• Mentorship opportunities with experienced archivists and museum professionals.
• A deeper understanding of women’s history, religious history, and American history.

Expected Outcomes

By the end of the internship, students will:

• Develop proficiency in handling and preserving historical materials.
• Complete a digitization project or archival arrangement task.
• Produce research-based contributions to the Mercy Heritage Center’s collections.
• Enhance their understanding of professional archival and museum standards.
• Build a portfolio of archival and research work to support future career opportunities.