Sullivan's Time at the Library
Written by Maia Furer
Libraries have always been places of study and learning; at the University of Hawaii at Hilo (UH Hilo) library, the Mookini Library, there exists the extra opportunity of hands-on experience through student employment. Kylee Sullivan, a past Mookini student worker, opens up below about her time at the library and studies.
From her student employment, Sullivan acquired knowledge applicable to her previous and current areas of study. A former Psychology major, she asserted that being in a job wherein she had to interact with so many different people helped her build great people reading skills. According to her, such skills are important for understanding others’ body language and helping them comfortably “[g]o with the flow.” Today, after her time at the Mookini Library and several English courses, Sullivan has decided to switch majors and join the English department.
Former Mookini Library student employee, Kylee Sullivan. Photo courtesy of Kylee Sullivan.
Sullivan further expressed how working at the library provided her with opportunities to meet new people, both through the students who visited and other employees she once worked beside. These individuals, many with whom she connected, along with her work environment, proffered her direction with her academics, later leading her to discover a passion for English. Hopefully within her new major, she will have chances to utilize her expertise on the UH Hilo database and research process. She commented that she has “[a] better feel for the library” than before her employment.
The new English major possesses a positive attitude when looking back on her time at the UH Hilo library. She believes other students should partake of hands-on experience, especially through the university, so activities can be tailored to both extra-curricular and course schedules. She also stated that she hopes UH Hilo will provide the student body with more hands-on opportunities.
Students interested in Mookini Library student employment may search Sece for job openings.
