25. From Teacher to Curator of Education: What Actually Helped Will Break Into Museums

For two years, Will did everything he thought he was supposed to do.He applied for museum jobs. He followed up. He networked. He hired a resume writer. He earned a master's degree. He volunteered.And still...nothing.In this episode, we sit down with Will Turner, a former high school history teacher who spent two years trying to break into museums before finally landing his current role as Curator of Education at the Museum of Florida History.But this conversation isn't just about a successful career transition.It's about what happens when you're qualified, motivated, and doing the work... but your applications still aren't landing.Will shares the realities of transitioning from education into museums, including:why his teaching resume wasn't workingthe biggest misconceptions he had about museum hiringhow volunteering and relationship-building opened doorsthe role networking actually played in his transitionwhy generic resume advice often falls shorthow interview preparation became the missing pieceand what finally helped him stand out in a crowded applicant poolWe also discuss the emotional side of career transitions: rejection, confidence, geographic flexibility, and learning how to tell a compelling story about your experience.If you've ever thought:"I know I have the skills. Why isn't this working?"This episode is for you.🔑 Key TakeawaysMuseum hiring often requires translating your experience into museum-specific language.A strong resume alone isn't always enough, interview preparation matters too.Volunteering can be a powerful way to gain experience and build relationships within the field.Networking works best when it happens through genuine involvement in the community.Teachers often underestimate how many leadership and project management skills they already have.Rejection doesn't always mean you're unqualified. Sometimes it's simply about fit, timing, or competition.Confidence is often built through the process, not before it.Breaking into museums can take longer than expected, but strategic adjustments can make a huge difference.