Teen Docents are trained museum volunteers who work in the Alcoa Foundation Hall of American Indians, Dinosaurs in Their Time, Walton Hall of Ancient Egypt, Hall of African Wildlife, and Insects. We answer visitors' questions about the animals, the exhibitions, and the museum in general. Most often, you'll see us (in our green logo shirts) standing behind touchable carts—informal carts packed with museum objects for visitors to explore. The links at the bottom of this page give some examples of the objects that can be found in the touchable carts.

Click here for a Fact Sheet (PDF) on the Teen Docent program.

Who can become a teen docent?

• Teens between the ages of 13 and 17 by January 1
• Teens who have a desire to learn and teach
• Teens that are available for training
• Teens who love new experiences and adventures

How do I apply?
Applications are due to the museum by the first week of January each year. Click here for the downloadable application (PDF). Fill out and mail to the following address as soon as possible:

Marie Pocasangre
Teen Docent Coordinator
Department of Education
Carnegie Museum of Natural History
4400 Forbes Ave
Pittsburgh, PA 15213

Then what happens?

• The Teen Docent program coordinator will read all applications, and phone eligible applicants to arrange personal interviews.
• Carnegie Museum of Natural History staff will interview all qualified applicants and select twenty to twenty-five students.
• Selected students MUST attend seven mandatory Saturday training sessions. Additional training is available and encouraged.

What opportunities will it give me?

• Volunteerism
• Practicing and improving communication skills
• Learning new things, including presentation skills
• Making new friends who share the same interests
• Developing a real feeling of independence
• Providing job references for academic and employment applications
• Providing a challenge for the summer and new school year
• Creating a fulfilling and rewarding experience

Follow these links to see some of the touchable objects that Teen Docents present to museum visitors:

Africa
American Indians
Biodiversity
Bugs
Dinosaurs
Egypt
Polar World