Where did you grow up?
Buffalo, NY for a few years and then Pittsburgh, PA.
What year did you begin working for GSLIS?
I began at GSLIS in June 2010.
Where did you work prior to GSLIS?
I coordinated the Information Specialist Internship Program (ISIP) at the University of Wisconsin–Madison libraries. The ISIP is an experiential learning opportunity with the mission to recruit students from historically and statistically underrepresented groups to careers in libraries and information science.
What do you do at GSLIS?
I coordinate the practicum course (LIS 591) and the Alternative Spring Break program. I also assist students in exploring LIS career options, identifying pathways to careers, and advising on job searching, application materials writing, and interviewing.
What do you like best about your job?
I really enjoy working directly with students to help them realize their career goals. I love getting the “I GOT THE JOB!” emails from students. These emails usually come after so much hard work in the classroom, in the field, and on applications; it is such a pleasure to see folks rewarded for their efforts. Keep them coming!
What is your proudest accomplishment on the job?
Being here! I am really proud to be part of a unit like GSLIS. There are so many intelligent and professional faculty and staff here. I am truly honored to be amongst them.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I like to ride bikes! The roads to the south of town are abundant and never crowded with too much traffic. I also like to cook, especially things that can be done in a Dutch oven or on the grill.
Favorite food?
I don’t like fennel. Everything else is pretty much my favorite.
Favorite book?
That would have to be Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain – I love his story, his writing style, and all of the culinary insider info that he shares along the way.
If your life was a book, what would the title be?
The Librarian Who Didn’t Read.
Is there any particular advice you would like to share with students?
Wayne Gretzky, the hall of fame hockey player, said “You miss 100% percent of the shots you don’t take.” Use this advice for your career. If you never try, it won’t happen. Visualize a direction that interests you and that you are passionate about and work as hard as you can to make that vision a reality. Then repeat.