Jennifer Jimenez ‘08, M.S. Information Science Del Mar College, Assistant Professor of Learning Resources Jennifer Jimenez embarked on her library science journey at the University of North Texas during an exciting time - the establishment of the College of Information. Having joined the master’s program in 2006, Jennifer vividly recalls the anticipation among professors as they approached this significant milestone. UNT had been training library and information science professionals since 1939, but it was during her tenure that the department reached new heights. The program’s unique blend of on-campus and online classes initially attracted Jennifer, who sought the flexibility to work full-time while pursuing her degree. Jennifer’s interest in library work blossomed during her undergraduate years at the University of Texas, where she served as a work-study employee at the Benson Latin American Library. Her experience sparked a passion for libraries, prompting her to enroll in UNT’s program. While completing her degree, she held a health and safety job in South Texas, followed by a position as a reference/children’s librarian at a local county library. The fully online program provided Jennifer with the flexibility to balance her work commitments while advancing her education. Despite the remote nature of the program, she emphasizes the strong connection she felt with professors and fellow classmates. During her studies, Jennifer seized a reference assistant position at Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, where she enjoyed assisting students - particularly first-generation students - with their research needs. Upon graduation, she began working at Coastal Bend College as a Distance Librarian, eventually transitioning to the role of Interim Library Director. After seven years, she returned to Del Mar College, where she has served as a Reference/eResource Librarian for the past seven years. Her work involves providing face-to-face assistance to members of the college community, managing databases, troubleshooting technical issues, and teaching classes. Recently, she earned a promotion to the rank of Assistant Professor of Learning Resources. Recalling her time in the MS Information Science program, Jennifer cherishes the teaching style of Dr. Ana Cleveland, finding her classes both intriguing and enjoyable. Additionally, she appreciates the insight shared by Dr. Moen, who revealed his prior career as a truck driver before transitioning into academia. This revelation broadened Jennifer’s perspective, emphasizing that librarians come from diverse backgrounds, and their life experiences enhance their contributions to the information service industry. For current students, Jennifer offers valuable advice: Explore different paths within the information and library science profession to find what aligns with their needs and aspirations. She encourages paraprofessionals to pursue their degrees, enabling them to continue working in a field they love while advancing into positions that empower them to make a greater impact on their communities. Jennifer highly recommends UNT’s fully online program, which offers a generous completion time frame of up to five years, facilitating a seamless integration of education and practical experience.
Please continue to read the 2022 - May 2023 Year in Review 11
