As a distance learner, I was concerned that I would feel disconnected, but the WSU School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) program does a really great job of helping you feel comfortable from the time you are admitted. The faculty and staff welcome you at the SLIS Orientation and facilitate discussion topics among various groups of students throughout the day with lunch provided. What a nice perk. After spending the better part of the day with your fellow SLIS classmates you have pretty much made your introductions to more than half the students there and end up finding team members for most of your group projects in your first foundation courses before the day is over. It's networking without having to think about it.

Take that one step further, and look into the SLIS student organizations and start networking with your fellow students. The WSU SLIS student organizations promote collaboration on library-related projects and activities. Not sure which one is right for you? Then start today and make a goal to attend a SLIS student organization monthly meeting until you find the group that suits you. If you are studying at a distance like me, then join the live monthly webcasts and stay connected to your fellow SLIS classmates. You can link to a student organization's blog or wiki from the SLIS Student Organizations site at http://slis.wayne.edu/students/associations.php.

Find your calling!