In this second installment of the Online Student Life series, we are putting the spotlight on the Southern Miss Student Archivists (SMSA) organization! SMSA is a fully virtual organization that caters to graduate and undergraduate library sciences students that have an interest in archives.
Dr. Hirschy is the faculty advisor for the Southern Miss Student Archivists organization. He’s also an assistant professor for the School of Information and Library Sciences. If you like reading, old stuff, and cats, check out the interview with him below!
Q. Why should people join SMSA?
A. People should join Southern Miss Student Archivists because of the community that is there, the guest speakers, extra opportunities to learn, and of course Dr. Hirschy’s cats if you like cats.
Q. What are the main benefits of the club?
A. The community, guest speakers, and extra opportunities to learn. We try to make sure that everyone has a chance to learn a little extra.
Q. What is your club community like?
A. Eccentric, but good. There are people at all stages of the program there wanting to get many things out of it. Everyone is welcome in our big tent!
Q. What are some favorite club activities or perks?
A. Speakers for sure. We have a variety of speakers from the professional and academic worlds come and speak and answer questions.
Q. Is this a resume builder?
A. Yes, it’s always been to see how one can engage with people and in a group. And from an archives point of view, you can make connections with people, both the speakers and your fellow classmates, around the United States and sometimes around the world.
Q. Are there ways to stay in touch with members virtually?
A. Email communications are our primary form of communication virtually. All of our meetings are virtual on Zoom. Meetings last around 1 hour.
Q. What are the benefits of finding a network of like-minded people?
A. Connection and confidence are the big benefits that come to mind right now. This is a safe place to come and learn and engage with others on archival matters and ideas. We have old stuff and cats!
Interested in joining SMSA? Email Dr. Mills at Xinyu.Yu@usm.edu or Dr. Hirschy at Jeffery.Hirschy@usm.edu!
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