Thanks to the generosity of Edward Koval and his family, MS/LIS student Claudia Farris can stop worrying about finances and simply focus on their studies. Farris is a recipient of the iSchool's Anna Mae Koval Scholarship, a need-based scholarship for students interested in youth services and literature.
"Receiving this scholarship has made an enormous impact on my education," said Farris. "Because of COVID, I was laid off, and I honestly didn't know if I was going to be able to afford to finish my degree. I'm a better student if I'm not worried about how I'm going to make rent and pay my tuition bill. I am not exaggerating when I say this scholarship changed my life."
Farris decided to pursue an MS/LIS degree because of the "huge impact" libraries have played in their life. For Farris, libraries have always been safe, welcoming spaces.
"I specifically want to go into youth services, but I'm also passionate about community outreach," said Farris, who holds a bachelor's degree in English from Portland State University. "I think libraries can be a great site for giving marginalized populations a variety of services."
Since Farris works full time in addition to their graduate studies, their free time is limited. Outside of class, they love to read, bake, and lose to their roommates at chess. In the future, Farris hopes to become a youth services librarian at a public library.
Thank you to our alumni and friends who contribute to iSchool funds that support our students.