Elena Smith - Junior
Student Library Assistant and Student Tutoring Assistant
University of Connecticut
How did you find your position? What was the process like from application to the offer stage? Please detail your experience.
I heard about these jobs from my friends. I found the application process very easy and straight forward. The interview part was a little stressful, but everyone was really nice and welcoming.
What made you apply for your position?
I wanted to be more involved on campus while also making money.
How have you been able to balance your schoolwork and work responsibilities? Please provide details of any challenges or hurdles you have encountered.
Yes. I try to schedule my shifts for a manageable amount of time, that way I have time to do schoolwork or other responsibilities.
What are your personal keys to success and what aspects of your job do you find the most fulfilling or enjoyable?
My personal keys to success are time management and asking for help when needed. I know there are people who will help me when I need it at my jobs, and they help me when I am stressed out about something. I also really like organizing the library, creating the displays, and making it more welcoming. At the APAC, I like covering the desk and working with others.
Describe your typical day at work?
For the library, I typically get in around 10 this semester. I will check the mail room, send emails about Husky One Cards, or about over-due books. I re-stocked the “Book Grab-and-Go” which is an area for students to take young adults or just more pleasure-reading books. I will then have lunch, work upstairs on the shelving project, and maybe do some homework in my downtime. I leave at 4. For the academic center, I first will check if I have any appointments. I might then do that or cover the desk. If I have nothing else, then I will work on other projects assigned that are due at the end of the semester for the APAC. Like making a worksheet for my study sessions or creating ideas for Instagram.
What skills have you acquired or developed in your on-campus job that can contribute to your career readiness or professional development?
For the library, I feel like I know the database and where all the books are located. I know what resources are available to me. I also feel like I know more people, which is something I have in common with my tutoring job. It allows me to meet new people, and I’ve actually made friends through my jobs. They have made me manage my time and problem-solving better too.
