Sherrod Library News

Reflections as a Sherrod Library Ambassador: Haleigh Ball

In August of 2018 I began my journey here at East Tennessee State University. At the time I was 18 years old, a nursing student, and one of many recipients of an Academic Performance Scholarship. Entering the final month before the fall semester, I was frantically searching for an APS job that seemed interesting but would also benefit my medical career in the future. I was convinced that chiropractic school would be my next academic adventure, and I had already begun to prepare by applying for activities, clubs, and jobs that make myself appear desirable to graduate schools. That being said, I was also looking for something that would continue my love for reading and literature, as I did not want to lose that part of myself throughout college. That was when I stumbled upon the Library Ambassador Program. To be a Library Ambassador, one must undergo a year’s worth of training on the Sherrod Library databases, how to use them for research, and how to help others by using this knowledge. The students accepted into the program are put into classes with the other new ambassadors and meet once a week for a class. It was here in this class that I learned some of the most valuable skills of my academic career and met so many new people who enjoyed the same activities as I did. Research has now become a large part of my academic career, and I have done copious amounts of writing using my skills since my induction into the program. In the future, I hope to incorporate research into my career as a therapist and advocate for disability. To close, this program has been a haven for me. The opportunity to be a part of the Library Ambassador has changed my life exponentially. It has given me the chance to stay connected with old friends, make new ones, expand my knowledge, and grow my personal identity. For that I want to thank Lydia Gwyn and Jonathan Wilson for making this experience possible and their constant support in my future aspirations. Finally, I would also like to encourage the new ambassadors to make the most of their time in the program by continuing to learn and explore!

• Learn more about the Library Ambassador Program: https://libraries.etsu.edu/use/libraryambassadors
  
   
• Interested in becoming a Library Ambassador? Find out more information on our student job opportunities page.