Shakira Olivera-Bautista
Major: Studio art
What are your post graduation plans?
After graduation, I plan to join the Navy part-time while taking a few classes to build my art portfolio for an MS in Medical Illustration. I’ll also be focusing on my own soccer photography and joining a soccer team to stay active and further immerse myself in the sport. Additionally, I’m excited to take a trip to Spain, where I can experience the culture and draw inspiration for both my art and photography.
What is a favorite memory you have from your time working and studying in the library?
One of my favorite memories working in the library was helping a student find a book they had been searching for there classes or personal hobbies.The excitement on their face when we finally located it made me realize how impactful small moments of assistance can be. It felt rewarding to know I played a part in their academic journey, and it made the job feel more meaningful.
What’s the best book or article you had to read for a class? Why?
I read “Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza” by Gloria Anzaldúa because it offers a unique exploration of identity, culture, and the intersection of the U.S. and Mexico. The book speaks to the experience of living in the borderlands, a space where multiple identities and cultures collide, and in doing so, it provides a profound lens through which to understand both personal and collective experiences. It deepens my understanding of how art and culture evolve within the context of hybridity and struggle. Anzaldúa’s writing inspired me to embrace my own cultural complexities and think about how they influence my creative work, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of art, identity, and cultural theory.
How has working in the library impacted you professionally and/or academically?
Working in the library has had a significant impact on me both professionally and academically. Professionally, it taught me valuable skills like organization, time management, and communication as I assisted students and faculty with their research needs. I also gained experience in customer service, which enhanced my ability to work with diverse groups of people. Academically, the library gave me access to a wealth of resources and exposed me to a variety of subjects, broadening my knowledge base and deepening my understanding of various topics. It also helped me develop strong research skills that have been beneficial in my own studies, as well as a deeper appreciation for the role libraries play in supporting education and knowledge-sharing.
Angela Acateca
Major: Chemistry
What are your post graduation plans?
I plan to attend graduate school to obtain my PhD in chemistry!
How has working in the library impacted you professionally and/or academically?
I got to know other students I typically don’t really see much in my classes or around campus.
Kara Justus
Major: Sustainability Science
Minor: Data Analytics
What are your post graduation plans?
I plan to garden and travel this summer before settling into a career in agritech in the fall!
What is a favorite memory you have from your time working and studying in the library?
When someone mattress surfed the library steps one night
What’s the best book or article you had to read for a class? Why?
I really enjoyed reading an article about the role of disillusionment in Hopi religion/culture for REL 221 with Dr. Turner. You could probably say that I’m drawn to the way indigenous cultures handle cycles of expectation, disappointment, and renewal—something that’s universal but expressed in unique ways in Hopi traditions…
Disenchantment: A Religious Abduction (Sam Gill)
How has working in the library impacted you professionally and/or academically?
When you’re deep in upper-level major courses, it’s easy to get stuck in academic silos, focusing only on a narrow set of topics. But through my library work, I’ve had the chance to explore areas far beyond my usual studies—whether it’s researching 1980s Chicago film or South Carolina church history. It’s been a refreshing and enriching way to engage with new fields and develop more well-rounded research skills
Lo Vodo
Major: Business administration
What are your post graduation plans?
Grad’s school
What is a favorite memory you have from your time working and studying in the library?
Eating Ed’s snacks
What’s the best book or article you had to read for a class? Why?
Letters to your kids because it talks about the importance of teaching kids
How has working in the library impacted you professionally and/or academically?
It has helped me with my organization skills and researching
Nailea Griselda Martinez Neri
Major: Psychology
Minor: Medicine, Health and Culture
What are your post graduation plans?
I’m going to Boston University to get my Masters in Counseling Psychology
What is a favorite memory you have from your time working and studying in the library?
Going on “break walks” around the library and seeing everyone stressing and talking it out
How has working in the library impacted you professionally and/or academically?
It has allowed me to help people find resources and also find resources on my own. Help people and be able to problem solve fast and efficiently.
Disha Patel
Major: Information Technology
Minors: Data Analytics and Visual Strategy
What are your post graduation plans?
I am looking for job. I am Constantly applying to new jobs.
What is a favorite memory you have from your time working and studying in the library?
I loved helping people and creating a great bond with librarians
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