IU Libraries Undergraduate Scholar Spotlight

1.  What would you like people to know about you?

I am a Nursing major with a business and Spanish minor. My top hobbies are listening to music, watching shows, and reading books. I also like running, walking, and finding cute coffee shops and boba shops. I want to get into cooking and baking. A lot of things make me happy (e.g., traveling, cake, tulips) but third spaces are probably what make me most happy. I love being surrounded by people doing their own things, which is why I love libraries, airports, and drink shops!

2.  How has working at the IU Libraries enhanced your college experience?

This scholarship has greatly improved my college experience because it has helped remove one of the biggest challenges about attending college—finances. Having a guaranteed job has removed the stress of job searching and has also allowed me to meet so many amazing people! This scholarship has allowed me to shift my focus from money to academics, friends, and hobbies, so I am incredibly grateful. It has introduced me to so many different people I can bond with. My coworkers are one of the kindest and smartest people I know, and this is important because your work environment can affect your mood and how you view your experience. My favorite parts of working in a library are the atmosphere and being able to talk to so many people while working. Both sides of the desk are equally amazing. Each patron is so unique and adds to the experience, as well as my coworkers and supervisors. 

3.   How do you envision the IU Libraries Undergraduate Scholarship helping you on your educational/personal path?

I plan on using my experience gained from working with IU Libraries to highlight my customer service and people skills. You talk to a lot of people, and need to be able to maintain a happy attitude so that patrons and coworkers get the best experience. That is an important skill in any career. 

4.  What books, podcasts, apps, and/or music are you preoccupied with right now that you recommend and why?

I have been listening to the album Short n' Sweet by Sabrina Carpenter nonstop since its release! I also have been listening to Positions by Ariana Grande, Sour by Olivia Rodrigo, and Superache by Conan Gray.

5.  What advice would you give to incoming freshman?

Take time to get involved and meet people! Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. But also prioritize your time, wellness, and schoolwork. Time management is the most important skill in college in my opinion. There are a couple strategies I use to manage my responsibilities and time. Making to-do lists helps me textualize what I have to do. Finding efficient ways to do certain tasks helps me save time and mental energy. Lastly, working with others saves time, increases quality, and is also fun! Take time to meet at least one other person in each of your classes. Collaboration is an important skill to have, and this is the perfect time to practice!