Education Background:
BS in International Business from the University of Delaware, and recently earned a Master's in Information and Library Science through the University at Buffalo.
What was your professional background before your current position?
I taught English in elementary schools in Japan for two years. It was an invaluable experience that help me greatly expand my comfort zone. It was also a time of self-discovery in which I was able to figure out that in which my true interests lie- history!
Describe your current position:
As the Collections and Research Assistant at the Cortland County Historical Society, I spend most of my days handling research requests, processing collections, and creating content for our social media. I also have a personal goal to aid researchers in discovering the unique archival materials at CCHS through finding aid creation.
What do you like best about your work?
I love that I get experience in activities that fit multiple different roles- from historian to archivist, museum curator and more! I develop diverse skills that I might not get to in a more specialized position. Also, there is deep satisfaction in interacting with a community that is so supportive of our efforts to preserve and share the history of the home they love.
What has been your biggest professional challenge?
It has been a challenge keeping up in an ever-changing environment and successfully advocating for our relevance. Much has changed so rapidly over the past few years, and we must think out of the box for ways to continue to meet our mission in an engaging way.
How are you seeing issues of diversity, equity and inclusion play a more prominent role in your work environment?
Decolonizing archives has been a primary focus in the field of late, and it is so important to proactively address biases and silences in collections.
What other organizations are you involved with?
I am a member of the American Library Association as well as the Society of American Archivists.
What advice would you give to someone new to the field?
It's nothing new, but don't turn your nose up at volunteering opportunities! I am in the position I am currently in because of my volunteering at CCHS, and was grateful for all the hands-on experience I got while pursuing my MLIS degree.
Are there any tips you would like to share that help you get things done?
Set reminders! I find I am not nearly as good at remembering important tasks as I thought I was so a reminder on my phone has proved very helpful.
Favorite blog or website:
What are you most proud of?
As someone who struggled for a long time to figure out and embrace my passions, I am proud of the work I have put in to establish concrete goals for my personal life and career, and then took steps to see those goals either realized or set in motion.
What is one thing you would you like to learn?
There are just so many to choose from, but a recent one is bookbinding.
What are you most looking forward to doing this spring?
I am looking forward to taking the train out to Missouri to visit family! I am hoping to catch some scenic views and take the opportunity to record some stories from my grandfather's life.
Thank you Sophie!
