Happy summer, everyone!
As we approach midway through the summer semester, many SIM students are engaging in program courses offered this term. Others are working in internships, summer positions, and volunteer roles. We will be highlighting four current SIM students over the next few months to catch up with how they’re making the most of their summer!
Our first student spotlight is on Alysha Try who is entering her second year in the MI program. Many thanks to Alysha for sharing a bit about her summer and her experiences at SIM! We hope you enjoy getting to know our students through these summer spotlights.
What is your favorite summer activity? Or your favourite Halifax activity?
I love going for summer walks and absorbing all that Vitamin D (can’t forget the sunscreen, though). This is my first summer in Halifax, and I’m astounded with all the beautiful, lush greenery. I’ve really been enjoying getting to know the South End better.
Are you working/volunteering anywhere this summer? Tell us a bit about your role and what you like most about your position!
I am currently working at the Patrick Power Library at Saint Mary’s University (SMU) for the summer. In this role, I work 50% in research reference services and 50% in information literacy. What I like the most so far is the community at SMU; I’m lucky to work with some wonderful library staff in a student-focused environment. I’m learning a lot!
What are you most looking forward to this coming school year? (E.g. any courses or subjects you are interested in diving into, etc.)
I enjoyed my first year of grad school, but I think second year will be even better since there is more flexibility in our choice of courses. I’ve decided to focus on obtaining the librarianship certificate while harnessing my passion for community-building and social justice. In terms of courses, I think I’m most excited for Culture of Privacy, Cataloguing, and Community Led Services. I’m also very excited for the return of the Information Without Borders (IWB) Conference this year!
Do you have any words of wisdom/encouragement for new students starting in the fall?
My number one piece of advice is: take care of yourself. Busyness in a professional Master’s program is to be expected, but if you’re here, you are probably already an overachiever. To the best of your ability, budget enough time for rest and also fun – getting to know the people in a very welcoming community like SIM’s has been the most rewarding part of grad school so far!
