Endless opportunities await students at Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University has made a name for itself as the cultural heart of campus. Now, it aims to be at the forefront of student involvement through its expanded employment opportunities and event programming for students.  

“Auburn students are at the heart of everything we do,” said Chris Molinski, the Janet L. Nolan Director of Curatorial and Educational Affairs. “The Jule is an amazing campus resource and a place for all students to gather, study and spend time with friends. We want students to know that everything at the museum is free, open to the public and student-centered — and our student employees are such an important part of that story.” 

Student employees can give tours, contribute to archival projects, work in the museum store and even join the newly created Student Advisory Board, which allows students to provide input on programs and community outreach. 

“Student workers create opportunities for deeper engagement with our exhibitions for visitors both in our galleries and out in the community,” said Christy Barlow, interim associate director of education, engagement and learning. 

Trinity Griffin, a senior majoring in architecture, said her favorite part of working at the museum is cultivating a welcoming environment for guests. 

“We’re the first faces you see when you walk in the door and are here to encourage other Auburn students to feel like the museum is accessible to them,” she said. “Between the visitor services team and the student guides, we do a lot to really welcome everyone to experience the art here at The Jule.” 

For many of the museum’s student workers, communicating with guests has helped prepare them for post-grad careers, no matter what their discipline is. 

Imani Poole, a senior majoring in applied mathematics with a concentration in actuarial science, has been working at the museum for three years. She said it has provided a level of professional development she couldn’t get in the classroom alone. 

“Writing pieces, conducting interviews, leading tours, talking to artists, giving presentations — all of these things have made me a better writer and speaker,” Poole said. “These skills are essential for all students, whether they study the liberal arts or not.” 

Students do not have to work at the museum, however, to enjoy this benefit. 

Its student-centered programming features a variety of events designed to foster community, encourage thoughtful dialogue and promote well-being through creative and reflective activities. 

The museum often partners with community artists and organizations for hands-on workshops. 

“I’d like to see a lot more students here for that,” said Poole. “We’ve had sewing lessons, learned calligraphy and made mobiles. It’s a lot of fun.” 

Beyond events, the museum provides a welcoming environment for students looking to study, unwind or spend time immersed in art. 

“For one, we have free coffee, if that interests you,” Griffin said. “We have a self-serve coffee machine in the cafe. A lot of students like to relax there and study. Second, the museum offers free admission for everyone. You can come anytime and bring as many people as you like.  

“And lastly, the museum is for the students. We really love when Auburn students come to the museum. We hope to see more of you.” 

The museum reopens to the public in August with new exhibitions, and general admission and programs are free for everyone. For more information, including hours, visit the museum's website.