From Art History to Museum Practice Curating a Future
Photo by Alex Sonfield '25.
Student Snapshot: Claudia Colaprete ’27
Claudia Colaprete ’27 is combining her interests in art history, East Asian studies and museum education through hands-on experiences at The Trout Gallery. From studying abroad in Japan to helping develop K-12 art education and curate exhibitions, she has found opportunities to connect her academic interests with the arts community on campus and throughout central Pennsylvania.
Hometown:
Cambridge, Md.
High school:
The Salisbury School.
Majors:
Art history and East Asian studies.
Clubs and organizations:
Station Manager at WDCV FM Dickinson College Radio, East Asian Studies Majors Committee, Curatorial Intern at The Trout Gallery and Arts Collective.
On my Dickinson experience:
Being able to form new friendships, connections with faculty and unique experiences every year, even after becoming familiar with Dickinson.
Best thing about my major:
The best thing about being an art history major at Dickinson is the opportunity to collaboratively curate an art exhibition at The Trout Gallery for Senior Seminar. As the exhibition develops, I look forward to gaining more experience in museum and curatorial studies that connects with my future career goals. I will also work with my classmates to co-author and publish an extensive exhibition catalogue featuring our research and analysis.
On studying abroad:
I studied abroad in Tokyo, Japan, in fall 2025 through Temple University Japan’s collaboration with Dickinson. The highlight was a specialized school trip to rural Yamagata Prefecture, where we experienced natural hot springs, climbed Mt. Haguro and explored its monuments, and learned about the customs and cuisine of local Buddhist monks.
About my internship:
I have been a museum education intern at The Trout Gallery since my sophomore year at Dickinson. This summer, I had the opportunity to work as The Trout’s summer learning and engagement intern, developing K-12 art education through Branch, an interdisciplinary exhibition telling the story of the United States through the history of trees. Branch has taught me how to analyze works of art through new lenses, including economics, ecology and indigeneity.
Most important thing I’ve learned so far:
One of the most valuable things I’ve learned at Dickinson is the importance of engaging with the community outside of a college environment. My first experience with this was helping plan and run WDCV’s Local Fest in spring 2025, which brought local bands and vendors to campus and gave Dickinson students exposure to the arts and music of the surrounding area. My work with Branch has also introduced me to the countless people advocating for environmental protection and education in central Pennsylvania.
Honors/scholarships/awards:
Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society, Dean’s List and a Dickinson merit scholarship.
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Published October 8, 2026