College Experiences That Helped an Outreach Librarian at State Library Succeed
Clarisa's undergraduate experience, initially in journalism then liberal studies, unexpectedly shaped their career as an Outreach Librarian; the broad range of courses, including "ethics classes" and "environmental science classes," provided a diverse knowledge base that surprisingly informs daily interactions with library patrons, proving that even seemingly "random" classes offer unexpected benefits. This eclectic academic background fostered a well-rounded perspective and coping mechanisms, highlighting the value of pursuing intellectual curiosity beyond a strictly career-focused curriculum.
Broad Education, Interdisciplinary Learning, Critical Thinking, Ethical Considerations, Stress Management
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Clarisa Arguello
Outreach Librarian
State Library
Florida International University, 2008
University of Miami, 2014, Master of Arts in International Administration (MAIA)/ Florida State University, 2016, Master of Science in Library and Information
Education
Government & Public Sector
Communication and Marketing
HSI Grad, Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Take a diverse range of courses, even if they seem unrelated to your major. A broad education can provide unexpected insights and problem-solving skills applicable to various situations.
2. Pursue classes that interest you, even if they aren't directly career-focused. These can foster creativity, stress relief, and personal growth, which are valuable assets in any profession.
3. Consider classes that expose you to different perspectives and worldviews. This can enhance your understanding of people and social issues, improving your ability to connect with and assist diverse library patrons.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
It's funny because I went from journalism to studying journalism, then to studying liberal studies. I loved it because I took a bunch of sociology classes.
I learned how people think and how the world works. I also took ethics classes and gained a broad understanding of many things. This has been helpful because you'll have someone come into the library with a question, and you'll randomly remember something from a past class that you thought was random, but it ends up helping them.
I'm not saying everyone should study liberal arts, but I do recommend taking at least one fun class. Take a class that isn't directly related to your career or something super serious. If it's an art class, take it.
I think it will help you later. You might take an art class and later, when you're stressed at work, want to draw. Because you took that class, you'll know how to get started, and it can become something that helps your mental health and allows you to express your feelings. So, take that class.
I loved it. I took ethics, environmental science, and even a sociology of terrorism class. It was the first time that course had been offered at the university. It scared me a bit, but it really helped me see the world differently. I appreciate taking that class now, which is a little sad but true.
Knowing more about things helps me feel more in control of my surroundings. Making that change to liberal studies in undergrad actually helped my career.
Advizer Personal Links
linkedin.com/in/clarisa-arguello