I recently met with Soren, a postgraduate History student at the University of Dresden, to find out what he had been up to in his volunteer placement at our museum.
What made you want to volunteer here?
Soren: I wanted to get experience of working in a British museum and improve my English; I first heard about the National Railway Museum from working at the Dresden Transport Museum – the locomotive Coppernob from your collection was featured in an exhibition there during the summer!
What have you been up to?
Soren: I’ve been working on the Information Point and also researching the Chinese Engine. I’ve also been able to explore Yorkshire and have visited Scarborough, Leeds and Sheffield.
What have you learnt?
Soren: Lots! I’ve been researching the Chinese Engine and discovering the European influence on China’s railways. I’ve completed a 7,000 word project on the loco which is going to be available for everyone to read in Search Engine.
What has been the best part about volunteering here?
Soren: I’ve really enjoyed researching the Chinese Engine and working with the museum’s friendly staff and fellow volunteers.
Would you recommend it to others?
Soren: Most definitely; I’ve had a wonderful time here and experienced so many new things. I’m heading back to Dresden soon but I’ll always remember my time spent at the National Railway Museum.
If you’d like to find out more about our volunteer opportunities, then please click here or contact our Volunteer Manager, Matthew Hick on matthew.hick@nrm.org.uk