NASIG Mentee

 

Back in June, I was matched with a mentor through the NASIG Mentorship program. I had applied to the program in May because I understand the value of having mentors in the profession. Especially when one is coming from a completely different background, like me. I had a wonderful mentor when I started my video work right after high school and I had a great mentor towards the end of obtaining my Bachelor's degree that helped me apply to graduate school and even wrote a letter of recommendation. I still talk to both these mentors and they have been extraordinary in helping me get to where I am today. Good mentors are invaluable and can help newcomers feel more at ease with the new terrain they will be navigating, can help lessen imposter syndrome when describing the scope of work one already has, and is just a great sounding board for questions, comments, and concerns. 

This past Friday my mentor and I spoke for the first time via Zoom. It was so nice to meet her. She works at a university in Kentucky and has been in the library science field for years. She was ever so nice and helpful. 

The prompt for our first conversation was "What have you learned/did you learn in library school that seems the most useful? What do you wish you had learned/was available in library school but wasn't offered?"

Like many careers, libraries have changed dramatically. My mentor stated that getting a degree in library science is great for the theoretical issues that arise. However, it's always best to put them into practice with work experience. Though I am just starting my third semester, I found this to be true. There are many issues I learn about in school that I wouldn't necessarily know how to put into practice at my job currently. However, there are many issues I've faced at work that have shaped the way I attempt or think about assignments in class. 

I'm excited I was considered for the program and can't wait to see what else we can teach each other throughout the year.