Students who are accepted come from a variety of cultures, backgrounds, and interests. Some Explainers are knowledgeable in the sciences while others may display strong public relations skills. The Program Director looks for students who have a spark for learning new things and a desire to work with people.
A key factor in the selection is reviewing where students are in their development and how this experience will make a difference. In selecting a new group of Explainers, the Program Director’s main focus is to choose individuals who can work together. A lot of care is taken to achieve a balance of strengths so that each student can benefit from the group dynamic. Because of this diverse culture, each group has its own personality. We are also interested in finding students that speak more than one language.
The High School Explainer Program welcomes all high school-aged students, including students that attend alternative schools. To be eligible to apply, students in alternative education programs must intend to attain a GED or take the High School Proficiency Exam. The program does not represent itself as a rehabilitation center for high school dropouts, but it has consistently demonstrated its capacity to kindle interest and enthusiasm for learning where normal channels have failed. We believe that the Explainer experience can have a deep, formative impact on a student’s personal development.
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must
• be at least 15 years old and have completed the first year of high school
(but not more than 18 years old)
• be open to learning new ideas
• be interested in working with people within a museum structure
Want to be an Explainer?
Applications can be found on the Exploratorium jobs page when positions are available.
Contact Information
High School Explainer Program
Exploratorium
Pier 17 Suite 100, Embarcadero
San Francisco, CA 94111
E-mail: hsesupervisors@exploratorium.edu
The Exploratorium is a nonprofit equal opportunity museum of science, art, and human perception.
