The School of Information at San José State University recently concluded its Lunch and Learn Workshop Series, a valuable resource for students pursuing a Master of Library and Information Science degree. This video series provides insights into the 14 distinct career pathways available in the program. The workshops, now available on the iSchool’s YouTube Channel and website, offer students in-depth guidance on course selection and professional development as they plan their futures in the library and information science field.

Sheila Gurtu, the iSchool’s student outreach specialist, said the series was created in response to graduating students’ requests for more opportunities to receive course planning and career advising from faculty. Gurtu and Taryn Reiner, the iSchool’s student support specialist, coordinated the workshops to give students a chance to hear directly from pathway faculty advisors about electives and projects while also receiving career tips from industry veterans.

The series covers all 14 MLIS career pathways. During the live online workshops, students explored various career trajectories, received specific course advice, and participated in interactive Q&A segments with the faculty advisors.

The very first workshop consolidated four pathways—Data Science, Digital Curation, Digital Services, and Emerging Technology—into one session due to their shared electives with the optional Advanced Certificate in Strategic Management of Digital Assets and Services. This nine-unit certificate program can be stacked with the MLIS or Master of Archives and Records Administration degree at no additional cost to existing students. The certificate is designed to enhance job prospects and is an excellent addition to students’ resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

Workshop Spotlight: Digital Assets Certificate Q&A with Pathway Advisors

During the Digital Assets Certificate Q&A with Pathway Advisors workshop in particular, faculty advisors emphasized the value of combining soft and hard skills and encouraged hands-on learning and user-centered design. Examples of relevant courses included data visualization, big data analytics, and digital curation.

Dr. Sue Alman, one of the pathway advisors, highlighted the importance of a balanced skill set, combining leadership, technology, and communication. Similarly, Dr. Michelle Chen discussed how data analytics and visualization courses help prepare students for data-driven decision-making using tools like Tableau. Dr. Michael Stephens emphasized the importance of user-centered design and how integrating technology to meet users’ needs is a critical professional skill. These insights were further expanded during the Q&A session, where students were encouraged to pursue multiple pathways and tailor their elective courses to align with their career goals.

Workshop Archives and Advising

The recorded Lunch and Learn sessions offer a lasting resource for students, allowing flexibility for those who could not attend the live events. These recordings are not just about career advice—they also encourage students to explore pathways, such as academic librarianship, public librarianship, and web programming, helping them to understand the wide range of professional career opportunities the MLIS degree can offer.

For students who need personal guidance, the iSchool provides access to pathway advisors through the advising page, where they can receive tailored advice about course selections and career directions.

New Student Services workshops for fall 2024 include topics like Developing Your Professional Wardrobe, where students can learn how to dress for success in the information science field. More sessions will be offered in the coming months, providing students practical tips for entering the workforce and building professional networks.