It is a bit sad to be reminded again that the content is valued so little relative to the programming. However, I fear that in regards to programming, the axiom that "you get what you pay for" is correct. The one exception might be in providing such an exciting opportunity that folks consider working for less. My son is an undergraduate digital design student in a five year program that requires 18 months of coop work experience. The digital design coop experience can pay quite well. As a second year student, he earned $17/hour plus benefits while working for a large company in Connecticut for six months. He was willing to work for much lower pay and no benefits (and to share a crowded loft apartment) for an opportunity with a New York media production company. However, the $17/hour is probably the better indicator. I wish the graduate students in history could expect such good pay for their internships.
Marjorie McLellan Director, Public History Department of History Wright State University Dayton, OH
