Gail
Roy
Portfolio
Southern Connecticut State University
School
of Communication Information and Library Science
Department of Information and Library Science
On
becoming a medical librarian . . . .
Introduction
When I decided to return to school at the age of forty, the online MLS program at Southern Connecticut State University seemed the perfect solution to juggling work, school, and family life. I was initially attracted by the convenience of the program, but have found online learning to be beneficial in many ways. My classmates came from all over the country and from several countries. This provided a more interesting mix of opinions, perspectives, and practices throughout the library community. This diversity was one of the most interesting aspects of learning online. Often I would already be familiar with practices within my own state, and would find it interesting to hear the views of a fellow student in Alaska, Florida, Portugal, or Israel. I also enjoyed online learning because I felt more comfortable participating. From my home office I was able to interact with students and contribute to the threaded discussions in a way I may not have in a traditional classroom setting, since online learning feels more egalitarian to me. Also, it seemed that the instructors and the students were embarking on new territory together and were willing to experiment. Online learning requires self-discipline, direction, and motivation. I found that I needed to be well-organized in order to keep up with the pace of online learning. There were greater demands placed upon me to participate actively in order to make my presence known to my instructors and classmates. Online learning cannot be a passive activity.
I was immediately comfortable with the online format and found that my computer skills and technical knowledge improved as the program went on. Because I was able to log into class at times convenient for my schedule, I was always comfortable and relaxed when I entered the online world. I could also give it my undivided attention, because I was deciding when to participate. The online environment allowed for more thoughtful participation. Students took time to respond to the threaded discussions and seriously reflected upon the issues being discussed. In several of my classes, we were asked to lead a threaded discussion by preparing questions, monitoring the discussion, and expanding upon issues presented. It was a wonderful way to interact with fellow classmates and an excellent learning experience. The document sharing feature allowed us to post our own work and to critique the work of others in the class. I know that this added greatly to my learning experience.
Since I had previous experience working in a hospital, I was most interested in the work done by medical librarians. I had no prior library experience when I applied to this program in September of 2000, and realized the importance of obtaining practical experience in this field. I was able to obtain a position as a library assistant in a medical library, and this experience was an invaluable addition to my formal education. I found that both school and work complemented one another: each helped contribute to my understanding of the field. I established student membership in the American Library Association, Special Library Association, Medical Library Association, and the Connecticut Library Association, and found membership in these professional organizations to be an essential part of my learning.
I have learned that there is no one set way to become a librarian. Each person must customize their own path and look for guidance and training from other librarians. This program provided the framework and foundation for my journey and allowed for enough flexibility to let me design my learning experience to meet my needs. I am extremely grateful to the professors who provided instruction and who were always available and willing to assist, and to the medical librarians who offered training, advice, and guidance along the way. I would like to thank my advisor, Dr. Josephine Sche, for her support and assistance throughout this process. I would like to thank Laura McKay, secretary, ILS Department, who was so helpful on numerous occasions. The entire staff at Online CSU deserve special thanks for their excellent work. I also wish to thank the following librarians who extended themselves to help a student and provided assistance and encouragement: Carol Youle, Kathleen Crea, Joanna Faraday-Sutton, Robin Ackley-Hassig, and Tim Lammers. In all of these librarians I found professionals who were eager to assist someone new in this field. They found time in their busy schedules to go above and beyond in assisting me. My final thanks is to my husband, Earl, whose encouragement and support makes all things possible.
The road to becoming a medical librarian has been a rewarding experience. I hope this portfolio adequately reflects my appreciation for the instruction this program has offered, the contributions made by many medical librarians along the way, the help of my mentors (and there were many), and the happiness I have found in choosing a career where I know I will be fulfilled by the performance of my job. My education does not stop here—in many ways, it is just beginning. The concept of lifelong learning in a profession that I have chosen appeals greatly to me. I am eagerly anticipating the future.