What are the most impactful things you have done during your graduate program at Simmons?
At Simmons, I conducted an independent research project on building social media literacy skills for undergraduate students. To make this possible, I secured International Review Board (IRB) approval to conduct interviews with the General Education faculty at Simmons, and grant funding from the Simmons Center for Information Literacy (SCIL). From my research and findings, I’m currently designing a series of instructional sessions on social media literacy and will deliver one to undergraduates in my final semester.
I’m also very proud of the work I’ve done at the Simmons University (Beatley) Library as a reference librarian, especially our ongoing collaboration with the nonprofit organization, Fenway Forward. Through this partnership, we established a Little Free Library, which we regularly restock with books, and have hosted several community-centered events with free books, arts and crafts, and storytimes!
Tell us about your research and area of specialization.
My research focuses on how social media has evolved from a platform of social connection into a major source of news and information, and the skills students need to navigate this shift. Through my work, I’ve found that most courses designed to teach students how to find and evaluate sources tend to overlook social media, even though it’s a significant part of students’ everyday lives.
In a world filled with AI-generated content and widespread misinformation, it’s more important than ever for students to recognize and understand how social media shapes the way information is created and shared. As a librarian, my ultimate goal is to empower students of all backgrounds and skill levels to become well-informed critical thinkers, both inside and outside of the classroom.
Did you participate in any internships during graduate school?
While I didn’t complete a traditional internship during graduate school, I did participate in the Civic Engagement Project — a fantastic research initiative led by Professor Laura Saunders and SCIL, in collaboration with the Boston Public Library (BPL). Over five months, my teammates and I conducted staff interviews, developed recommendations for civic engagement programming, and presented our findings to the Boston Public Library’s president [David Leonard ’25PhD] and key stakeholders.
Not only did this project sharpen my research, interviewing, analysis, and teamwork skills, but it also gave me the opportunity to explore the evolving role of libraries as centers of community engagement and contribute to this growing research area.
What was your favorite Simmons course and why?
Without a doubt, my favorite Simmons course was “Social Informatics” (LIS 421), taught by Professor Lisa Hussey. The most amazing part of this course is that it takes place at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea! For two weeks, my classmates and I attended classes with Yonsei students, visited famous libraries, ate amazing food, and explored cultural landmarks and surrounding neighborhoods.
This trip was both professionally and personally transformative. I gained a global perspective of librarianship, witnessed exciting innovations in the field, and made wonderful memories and friends. I highly recommend this class to anyone who has the opportunity to take it!
Who was your most influential Simmons professor/mentor and why?
I had the opportunity to collaborate with Professor Saunders on the ALA (American Library Association) Accreditation Steering Committee, The Civic Engagement Project with the BPL, and my independent study. My supervisor and mentor, Professor Saunders, is kind, encouraging, and genuinely inspiring. Her support and confidence provided me with the courage to apply for a SCIL grant and pursue my independent research, and I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I did at Simmons without her guidance.
Professor Saunders is also an inspiration in the library and information science field, both as a researcher and a professor, and I aspire to mirror her dedication and impact in my own career.
How has Simmons prepared you for your intended profession?
My coursework provided me with a strong foundation in librarianship and information science. The flexibility of the program allowed me to explore specific areas of interest, including instruction and information literacy. My professors have been thoughtful, supportive, and encouraging. At Simmons, your professors truly do want you to succeed and are always there to help!
Simmons has also provided me with many opportunities to put theory into practice, such as student worker positions, research projects, grant funding, student organizations, exchange programs, volunteer opportunities, and so much more. This practical experience has helped me develop the real-world skills needed to thrive in any professional setting.
With the support of my professors and peers, I am graduating from Simmons with the skills, connections, and confidence to make a real impact in my field, and I am genuinely excited for what comes next!
How did you find your community at Simmons?
At a smaller university like Simmons, getting involved feels much less intimidating. Early on, I felt comfortable reaching out to faculty and peers about potential opportunities on and off campus. One of the best decisions I made was taking a job on campus as a student worker.
I joined the Student Services Center and learned so much about Simmons, my program, and available resources on campus. This job also allowed me to connect with faculty and my peers, helping me build relationships and grow my professional network.
In my first semester, I decided to join a student organization and became co-chair of the Simmons Student Chapter of the Association for Information Science & Technology (ASIS&T). Through this position, I gained experience in leadership, teamwork, and collaboration. I also connected with my peers by hosting events to discuss librarianship, innovations in technology, and artificial intelligence, among many other important topics.
What advice do you have for current and incoming Simmons students?
Grow your career capital! Simmons University is a great place to grow your knowledge, skills, and professional network. Attend your classes, show up ready to learn, network with your professors, connect with your peers, and always go out for opportunities to build your resume. Even though it may be difficult now, your hard work will pay off!