Sept. 18, 2007 issue
In 2002, I was living on Summit Street in
Ypsilanti while I attended Wayne State University for my
graduate degree. I was working at an undergraduate library
there, but always dreamed that one day I'd be able to work
for the university across the street — EMU, that is.
A temporary position opened, I applied, and have been here ever since!
I began my career with the University five years ago at Halle Library,
unsure of what direction that would take me. Now, I am a faculty member
as the First-Year Experience Librarian.
I primarily work with students in the First-Year Writing Program. Instructors
who teach English 120 and 121 bring their classes into the library and
I work with them on navigating the library, and finding and using information.
I never thought that I'd end up teaching, but EMU provided me with the
opportunity. Although I certainly did not plan on this career move, it
has worked out very well. I can sincerely say that I love my job.
It's very rewarding to be in this position. I get to meet so many students
new to academic libraries and the college experience in general. I appreciate
the diversity on campus and how down-to-earth EMU's student body is.
I also spend some of my time helping students at the reference desk.
It's nice to be able to help someone in a one-on-one setting. Iit's a
lot like teaching, but with just one person in your class! The students
are always fun to work with and watching them walk away with new knowledge
and skills is the most rewarding piece of what I do.
Apart from my duties in the library, I've also contributed to various
on-campus projects. I've taken part in the planning of annual Homecoming
events and EMU's Family Day. I also am the liaison in the library between
EMU and the American Red Cross, and plan a few blood drives each year.
All of these activities have given me the chance to work with other great
people on campus that I wouldn't otherwise know or meet.
I just got married this summer to Adam Kempa, a software engineer, and
live happily with him and our cat, Scout, in Saline.
