Volunteer: David McCormack

When were you a museum volunteer?

I originally came to the museum as a student undertaking a work placement for my BA in Contemporary Military and International History at the University of Salford. On completion of the placement in June 2009, I elected to continue working at the museum in a volunteer capacity. I continued to work at the museum for one day per week until I commenced a MA in Arts & Museum Management in September 2009.

Where did you volunteer?

Museum of the Manchester Regiment

What inspired you to become a volunteer?

On completion of my BA, I considered pursuing a career within the heritage sector. I saw volunteering as a valuable opportunity to learn new skills and gain additional experience which would facilitate my personal goals.

What did you do as a museum volunteer?

During my time as a volunteer, I worked mainly on the ‘Memorial Plaques Project’. This project involved transcribing the details of approximately 150 recipients of memorial plaques awarded following the armistice that ended the First World War. In addition to transcribing data, this project also involved aspects of design and presentation which served to greatly enhance my IT skills. Whilst much of my volunteer experience involved working on computers, I was also given a valuable opportunity to develop conservation skills by being involved in manufacturing mounts for the museum's hat collection.

What training and support did you get as a museum volunteer?

Training and support during my time as a volunteer was tailored to meet my individual needs. Staff were available to respond to queries and were highly responsive, showing great interest in enabling me to make the most of my volunteering experience. Instructions for given tasks were clear and concise, and if any clarification was required, this was provided in a calm and patient manner

What skills and experiences did you gain as a volunteer?

Volunteering at the museum provided valuable opportunity to enhance my IT skills. During the course of the Memorial Plaque Project, I entered upon a steep learning curve. As I enjoy learning new tasks, this served to reinforce my self motivation. The opportunity to work with the hat collection provided an insight into preventative conservation which has proved of value during my current studies. In addition to learning new skills, I gained valuable experience of working within a team in a museum environment.

What would you say to others thinking of becoming a museum volunteer?

I would recommend volunteering to anybody thinking of undertaking museum studies or of working in the sector. I have found the experience hugely rewarding and would actively encourage others to share the experience.

What was the best thing about being a museum volunteer?

Working as a museum volunteer was an enjoyable and highly informative experience. With this in mind, I would consider that the best thing about the experience was being given opportunities to learn new skills. I also enjoyed the experience of working with the team, so much so that I would be happy to volunteer again should the opportunity arise

What was the worst thing about being a museum volunteer?

There are no negative aspects to report on my experience.