I had been in the program for a little over two years when I decided to apply for the position as the Diversity GSA with SLIS. Like those who came before me I was nervous - quite nervous to be exact. I was not sure if I had what it took to even win an interview. Lo and behold, a week or so after I applied my wish was granted! Excited? Of course, but this was the first time I had ever applied for such a position. I was proud yet doubtful at the same time.

Now fast forward to the interview. I had no clue of what to expect as I made my way through the Kresge side of our schools library and up the stairs to the third floor. There I was greeted by a panel of SLIS faculty and staff ready to pick away at my brain to see if I had what it took to make it as a GSA. My initial reaction when I approached the panel was to run as fast as I could to the nearest safety zone (preferably home). But something inside me told me stay, to show them what I was made of. And alas despite my uncertainty I approached the panel with confidence and a no holds barred attitude. In actuality I must have nailed it because shortly after, I began as the second Diversity GSA for SLIS.

 

 

The SLIS faculty and staff were considerate of the fact that I had never done anything like this before, in doing so I was granted the opportunity to receive training from the first GSA as she transitioned out of the program and into her career. She aptly helped me to adjust to my new position, showing me where and how to gather information for research, helping me to develop a list of professional contacts, explaining in detail her previous endeavors, initiatives and ideas as well as potential projects that I could start or continue with. Most importantly she was open and accepting of all of my questions and of course mistakes! Shortly after she finished the program I began to delve into projects with some of the faculty such as researching and gathering contact information of LIS alumni and professionals. In addition I was allowed to get my feet wet in the public speaking arena by designing and conducting "Lunch and Learn" sessions for prospective students on an off campus. My first was frightening…and yes it was a bust (due to lack of attendance), nevertheless it was great start as I received solid professional advice from other faculty and staff on how to carry on with success. Once I was comfortable speaking in front of a small and cozy crowd I graduated to larger speaking engagements outside of Michigan. This included but was not limited to participating in a Leadership program with the Atlanta University Centers Summer Leadership Institute, Poster sessions at the American Library Association (ALA) conference in Chicago, the Black Caucus of the ALA (BCALA) in Kentucky, the Michigan Library Association (MLA) in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and a graduate school fair at Michigan State University. I was even granted a few opportunities to introduce myself and speak at a few of our open houses. Though I still haven't mastered the art of public speaking I am a far cry from where I stood over a year ago.

Aside from the occasional speech, I took the opportunity to reach out to prospective students via emails and blog postings. I was surprised by the positive responses I received from students not only interested in the program, but curious about issues of diversity within our field. Even my eyes were opened to the lack of diversity within LIS.

I am almost ashamed to say that what I knew about diversity (within the field), prior to starting this position paled in comparison with what I know now. It opened my eyes to what the word minority really entailed. It wasn't just limited to people of African descent, Latinos, Native Americans, and Asians; it included those with physical disabilities, different religious and economic backgrounds as well as members of the LGBT community. Being in this position really opened my eyes to what diversity means to the human population not just me. I must credit research and networking for the knowledge I gained in this area.

Aside from these eye opening experience as well as traveling and public speaking, two of the most rewarding adventures came when I was approached by Dr. Kafi Kumasi to take over FLID (Future Librarians for Diversity and Inclusivity) and assist with research for an upcoming article ("Opening up Diversity Levers in the Core Library and Information Science (LIS) Curriculum: An Exploratory Study") for possible publication in Library Trends in (2015). These experiences have forced me to step outside of my comfort zone and into the shoes of a leader and a researcher. The first project I had no familiarity with and the latter very little (professionally that is!). These are all critical skills that will help me grow as a professional, and I can say with certainty I may have never had the chance to face these challenges if it weren't for my position as the Diversity GSA.

Now fast forward to August 2014! My last month as the Diversity GSA is quickly coming to a close, my how time flies! I have served as the DGSA for SLIS for a year and half and what an adventure it has been. Sadly, I am leaving behind my responsibilities, but it is what I have learned here that will help me succeed as I continue on through the program as a dual MLIS and History major. As I transition into the history program I plan to become more involved outside of the classroom and carry with me what I have learned thus far into new ventures, leadership positions and prospects. Out of all of my challenges in life and at Wayne state, obtaining this position has thus far been the most rewarding overall and one that I am most proud of. I can guarantee the next DGSA will feel the same.

With thanks and great appreciation I bid you adieu!

Sincerely, Nichole L. Manlove