Beyond the Lecture Hall: Rutgers Students Transform into Art Docents, Igniting Museum Engagement

Rutgers University is pioneering a fresh approach to art museum engagement, entrusting its own students with the vital task of leading weekend tours. This initiative transcends traditional gallery experiences, transforming students into enthusiastic guides who share their passion and knowledge with the public, while simultaneously honing their own understanding and communication skills.

The program, spearheaded at the Rutgers University–New Brunswick campus, sees undergraduate and graduate students stepping out from behind textbooks and into the vibrant world of art interpretation. These budding art historians and enthusiasts, like Rutgers senior Roshan Kenath and doctoral student and teaching assistant Megan Mauriello, are becoming the human faces of the institution’s collections, offering a relatable and dynamic perspective that often resonates more deeply with visitors.

“We’re seeing a significant shift in how visitors interact with the art when it’s presented by someone closer to their own age or experience level,” explains one museum official. “There’s a certain openness and curiosity that students can foster, making art feel more accessible and less intimidating.”

For students like Kenath and Mauriello, the experience is a powerful form of experiential learning. They are not merely reciting facts from a script; they are developing critical thinking skills, honing their public speaking abilities, and deepening their understanding of the artworks through the act of teaching. The preparation involved is rigorous, requiring a thorough study of the museum’s permanent collections and special exhibitions, as well as training in effective communication and engagement techniques.

“It’s one thing to study art in a classroom, and entirely another to stand in front of a piece and have to explain its significance, its historical context, and its artistic merit to a diverse group of people,” says Mauriello, who has been actively involved in the program. “It forces you to think on your feet, to anticipate questions, and to truly connect with the material.”

Kenath echoes this sentiment, highlighting the personal growth he’s experienced. “I’ve always loved art, but being a docent has given me a new appreciation for the stories behind each piece and the different ways people can interpret them. It’s incredibly rewarding to see someone’s eyes light up when they understand something new.”

The weekend tours are strategically scheduled to coincide with peak visitor times, ensuring that the student docents have ample opportunity to interact with a broad audience, from art aficionados to casual visitors and families. This direct engagement not only benefits the public by offering personalized insights but also provides invaluable feedback and real-world experience for the students, potentially shaping their future academic and professional paths.

This innovative approach by Rutgers University underscores a growing trend in educational institutions to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical application. By empowering students to become active participants in the dissemination of knowledge and culture, the university is fostering a more vibrant and engaging environment for both its students and the wider community. The art museum, once perceived by some as a quiet repository of historical artifacts, is being revitalized as a dynamic space for learning, dialogue, and discovery, led by the very individuals who are shaping the future of art and academia.