What does it mean to be a StudioLab Consultant?

The StudioLab is an academic assistive service for students and teachers alike.  Our primary areas of expertise are writing consultations and multimedia consultations.  At the StudioLab, my responsibilities as a Student Consultant revolve around the two principle services that the StuidoLab provides. First, I assist students with the writing process and writing assignments.  These consultations can consist of any writing assignments whether for the sciences or humanities.  Secondly, I teach and help students and faculty with multimedia projects such as videos, power point, Photoshop, and a variety of other Microsoft and Adobe programs.

My most vivid memory of working in the StudioLab would be my first busy shift.  As a new consultant I had no real idea of what I was doing or even how to work the programs.  I quickly learned how to effectively use my resources and my peer consultants to prevent a disaster.

The most important skill I have learned has been the ability to find an answer to a question that I do not know quickly.  I have become an expert using Internet resources, ie google, to help others while also keeping the client and myself calm and relaxed.  In addition, I have personal pride in my ability to relate cross disciplines to meet a common goal.  This skill has been developed while at Furman and particularly in the StudioLab while I have had to use my knowledge of computer programs and writing format to apply to a subject I have no prior knowledge.

I think the best metaphor for symphony at the StudioLab is the madness that happens behind the scenes that clients don’t see.  Our ability to make everything seem fine and to find a way to solve the problem is what makes us so great.  Our individual moves do no always seem to make sense, but in the end, the projects get done.

The StudioLab has been a great opportunity to learn how to help my peers while also developing my own technical skills.  I enjoy a job where I am challenged and as a consultant, I have defiantly have had my fair share of challenges.