I Just Completed My MS in Library and Information Science with a School Media Specialty

Maryalice Smith M.S. in Library and information Science ‘08

I just completed my MS in Library and Information Science with a School Media Specialty. It took me 2 ½ years to complete this masters as I was also working full time in a NY state school system, where I currently work as a School Nurse Teacher. As you might imagine, having no background in library science and being out of school for many years, I was very skeptical about really being able to tackle what was ahead of me. What helped most, as I began my classes in the summer of 2005, was attending the Helen Benning Regnier Summer Institute (otherwise appropriately referred to as “boot camp”) and living on campus. During this experience, I was reassured through the many caring, smiling and encouraging faculty and staff I met along the way. I was also pleasantly surprised to see there were many classmates who also had progressed along their life’s journey and arrived to campus with the same insecurities!

Returning to SU in the summer months and participating in on campus classes were my favorite parts of the program. I really enjoyed working closely with classmates and professors, walking amongst the beautiful SU campus buildings, and accomplishing much while at Byrd Library. I is important to note that I was able to leave my family commitments behind and in the good hands of others, which helped me focus my energies for these short stays on campus. You conquer much and are appreciated greatly when you return!

Before my enrolment in the degree program, I did not have a great deal of experience or confidence in using technology. However, classmates and support from the SU technology team helped to keep me on top of this wave. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to participate in distance learning as I live 4 hours from Syracuse.

Currently, I continue to work as a School Nurse Teacher. I completed all the NY requirements and recently received my state certification! I look forward to becoming a school librarian working with students of all ages and to continue contact with SU. Please feel free to email me with any questions you may have. Many people were there to help clarify things for me and I would like to do the same for others who are considering the SU program or those who already have started and need a bit of encouragement. I wish you the best in your endeavors! Maryalice Paroby Smith [email protected]