Personal Goals/Objectives

I have several goals that I wish to accomplish through my studies with Wayne State University.  My main focus, of course, is to earn a MLIS degree and become a certified librarian in the state of Indiana.  When I accepted the job of branch manager at the public library I work for, I agreed to complete a library science program within two years.  Keeping my job has been my main focus, but as I look further into librarianship as a career, achieving this goal has turned into both a professional and personal one.

Professionally, I enjoy this work and I believe in the importance of libraries in our communities. My hope is that through the skills I learn from my studies, I will be able to give the community the best library possible. I want to learn updated methods of running a library, management theories, have a broader understanding of technology and the library, and learn more about the administrative role in a library system. I also hope to learn more about careers outside of the public library; maybe I will find interest in a different area of librarianship.  Networking with others in the profession, or studying to be in the profession, is a very important objective as well. The article, "Networking Today: A Guide for Business Professionals and College Graduates," states, "according to the United States Department of Labor, approximately 70% of all jobs obtained in this country are secured through networking." No one can ever be too sure where their path will lead them. The more education and networking I have under my belt, the wider my road will be. The MLIS degree will set a firm foundation for a fulfilling, lifelong career.

Personally, I have always wanted to continue my education.  Pursuing education is an ongoing joy that I always hope to achieve, even after I accomplish the MLIS degree. Setting challenging goals and achieving those goals gives me a sense of pride, as well as set a great example for my daughter. 

I hope to achieve many things, both professionally and personally, through my studies with Wayne State University. This is an exciting adventure! I have no doubts that I will be challenged, that I will learn things that will benefit the public library I currently work for, and that I will find ample opportunities for networking.  I am very hopeful as I embark on my career as a librarian!

References

"Networking Today: A Guide for Business Professionals and College Graduates." Masters Degree Online.  N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Jan. 2014. <http://www.mastersdegreeonline.org/resources/networking-today/>.