As any avid reader or writer might experience, we often daydream about the perfect scenario and setting- that ideal moment of coziness or creativity where words just flow and everything feels just right. Today, October 30, seemed to be the day I got lucky. As I sit here in the reading room at the Moravian Archives in Bethlehem, surrounded by 18th-century and 19th-century materials, I take a moment to look outside, and I had an illuminating realization. I loudly whispered to myself in my head, “You’re actually living out one of your dream scenarios right now!” Beautiful fall scenery, cold rainy day, peaceful environment, and 18th-century books?! I could not help but burst into a smile and cash in on this moment to reflect on my time here so far.

As an archival processing intern, understanding that I am now at the halfway point of my 200 hours for my internship here at MAB, it comes with a bittersweet emotion. I’ve learned so much, gained so much, and have such tunnel vision- in the best way possible. Now more than ever, I desire to fulfill my dream of becoming an archivist. No denying I’ve always loved learning in any capacity, but finally having the opportunity to learn from professional archivists on a day-to-day basis and work on cataloging my first collection, I’m often in a state of disbelief. I get to see a preview of what my future responsibilities might look like when I reach my goal of earning that title.

Observing both challenges and successes is essential to achieving any deserved goal. One of the toughest challenges from the start was deciphering the 18th- and 19th-century German and English handwriting—a true puzzle in itself. Understanding my collection, The General Diacony, for what it truly represents has been a rewarding process. As Kaitlin aptly put it, it’s “TurboTax before TurboTax,” to paraphrase. Experiencing my first aha moment was incredibly fulfilling. One particular challenge was figuring out the modern English equivalent of “Rechnungen,” the German term for “accounts.” After jotting down synonyms on sticky notes and asking at least three times, “Do you mean this?” Close to doubting my own mind, I nonchalantly said, “Balance sheets.” Kaitlin’s bright smile said it all—mental gold star achieved.

In my previous experiences, I had only encountered collections midway through processing or was assigned to smaller portions. While those opportunities were valuable, this experience is entirely different. It allows me to see a collection from its raw beginnings all the way to the point where it becomes accessible for patrons. Through this process, I’m not only uncovering the financial workings of the early Bethlehem community but also connecting with its history.

Spending valuable time with Kaitlin and Tom has taught me so much. I am witnessing how well a team can work together, how they problem solve, how to communicate with your colleagues, and -in a more selfish manner- how to foster a welcoming learning atmosphere for an intern who’s trying her best to reach her professional goals. This forced me to gain knowledge in financial literacy that I never thought I would have to. But isn’t that the beautiful part of this field? A chance to reconnect and listen to the past while simultaneously making the best effort to preserve it for future generations to have access.