The Explorers Program is a college, career, and life readiness program that enables Newark-area high school students to build essential skills and self-confidence through a curriculum that draws upon the Museum’s unique collections, resources, and staff.

Every year, students from diverse backgrounds learn about their passions and strengths and develop new skills as public speakers, teachers, researchers, and leaders. Students are also paid for their participation in the program.

As part of the program, students participate in the following experiences:

  • Internships in different areas of the Museum, for which students design and lead projects to gain real-life experience in a variety of jobs and fields of study
  • Workshops focused on leadership training, public speaking, team-building, and Museum-based art and science projects that promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning
  • Group trips to other institutions of culture and learning

Over their three- to four-year tenure in the program, participants must commit to spending six after-school hours per week in the program during the school year, in addition to 60 hours of community service per year, and 25 hours per week each summer.

 

Applications Now Closed

Thank you for applying. Applications are currently under review. Applicants will be notified by the end of July 2024.

Uncovering the Mysterious Ballantine House

Join the Explorers Class of 2024 as they dive deep into the fascinating history of a mysterious Newark Mansion. This podcast, part of their senior project, explores the rise and fall of the Ballantine Beer Industry and provides a detailed breakdown of the mansion’s Gilded Age architecture.

Listen now to uncover all the intriguing nuances behind this historic landmark.

Linda Harrison, Shirley Thomas and Jessica Nuñez with the Explorers at the 2019 Gala.

Since the program began 29 years ago, more than 400 students have graduated from the Explorers Program. Over the past 15 years, 100% of students graduating from the program went on to attend institutions of higher education.

Have Questions? We've Got Answers!

For more information, call 973-596-5143, or email us at explorersprogram@newarkmuseumart.org.