Oakland’s 2024 Preservation Intern Reflects on Her Experience
By Bethany Girard, 2024 Preservation Intern
I learned about the summer internship with Historic Oakland Foundation through my Kennesaw State University professor, Dr. Jennifer Dickey. Being three short credits away from earning my bachelor’s degree I knew I wanted an internship under my belt before graduation. Prior to this internship, I thought I would use my history degree to become an historical archivist. After two short months of interning at Oakland, I now know that preservation will be my pursuit. There are not enough words in the English language to describe how much I have enjoyed this experience. I’ve garnered so much hands-on learning and I’ve had the pleasure of working on some truly gratifying projects with knowledgeable people that are passionate about preservation.
My internship began in the East Hill section of the cemetery. On my first day we started the deconstruction of a wall that needed to be repaired. I learned how to use a tripod, chain hoist, and monument clamp all on day one. After my first eight hours as an intern, I was in awe of Oakland and the preservation efforts occurring within its walls. This summer, I learned how to lay brick, use scaffolding, mix and pour concrete, and repair damaged headstones. My favorite project of the summer was repairing Robert E. Jackson’s headstone. During this repair I learned how to use epoxy, how to reset the stone and how to color match mortar to a weathered 149 year old marble stone.
The overarching thing I am taking away from this internship is that taking the leap and leaning into the unknown can be more rewarding and fulfilling than you could ever expect. The work I have done this summer feels momentous. It feels like I am taking part in something that truly matters, something that is bigger than myself. Preserving the past for generations to come has been such an educational and rewarding experience. If you are a student considering preservation as a career path, I say take the chance and I highly recommend taking that chance at Oakland. You never know how much you may enjoy something until you try it.
