Fall 2009 Reflections

I am officially done with finals! One semester down!

I survived my first semester in graduate school! Yay! This semester flew by quickly, and the workload was quite intensive. I had moments where I thought I couldn't handle the workload. My peers came from diverse educational and geographic backgrounds. We are specializing in different areas (a strong benefit for the school). I took two foundation courses, two specialization electives, and a cognate in another school.

I believe I enhanced my teamwork and critical thinking skills. I also demonstrated my creative (artistic) side in several class presentations. The faculty also encourages students to pursue cognates outside the school; therefore, I plan to take cognates in other professional schools around campus. I had the opportunity to attend a conference and network with other professionals. I plan to attend similar events in the near future.

Happy Holidays everyone! I resume classes next month.

Update (11/23/2011): I am no longer enrolled in the School of Information. However, I will continue to support libraries and digital divide initiatives that connect people with information.

What are iSchools?

The University of Michigan School of Information is a member of the iSchools Caucus (also known as School of Information). It is a 24-member organization that is interested in the relationship between people, information, and technology. iSchools members combine five core academic fields (archives, business, computer science, human-computer interaction, and library science) to create an interdisciplinary curriculum. These schools are interested in the uses and users of information, and the application of information technologies. Scholars conduct research on the nature and fundamental aspects of information.

Degree programs in iSchools include course offerings in areas such as information architecture, design, policy, and economics; knowledge management, user experience design, and usability; preservation and conservation; librarianship and library administration; the sociology of information; and human-computer interaction and computer science.

USNews: 11 Skills You'll Need for a Career

U.S. News posted an article about which career skills every college graduate should learn. I think this list (click on the link for a more detailed description) also applies to graduate students (especially those enrolled in professional programs). I will say these transferable have helped me succeed in my previous positions.

1. Writing clearly and forcefully.
2. Systematizing and organizing data.
3. Doing research.
4. Presenting material orally.
5. Taking notes.
6. Meeting deadlines.
7. Working on a team.
8. Getting along with a boss.
9. Multitasking and time management.
10. Seeing a big project through to completion.
11. Creative thinking.