My profound interest in the museum field is rooted in my passion for preserving cultural heritage and making it accessible to diverse audiences. Museums, in my view, serve as vital bridges between the past and the present, fostering understanding and appreciation of our shared human history. Through digitization, materials are made more accessible for use by researchers and the public.
My internship at the University of Florida Special and Area Collections was my first foray into the world of archival science. The MLIS curriculum has deepened my understanding of archival theory and practice, particularly in creating descriptive metadata and utilizing content management systems. This theoretical foundation, coupled with hands-on experience, has honed my ability to organize, preserve, and make historical materials widely available while maintaining their integrity—skills that are paramount in managing digital and physical collections in museums.
Additionally, I worked as an undergraduate assistant at the Florida Museum of Natural History where I was tasked with digitizing a large collection of specimens for a global database. My interactions with complex imaging equipment and advanced computer programs not only honed my technical proficiency but also deepened my appreciation for the intricacies of creating digital collections. The culmination of my efforts materialized when I presented our digitized collection at a prominent museum conference.
Through the MLIS program, I have had the opportunity to connect with professionals across the library, information science, and museum sectors. The program has opened doors to further professional development opportunities, allowing me to share my experiences and learn from others in the field. The network of professionals and academics found through the Association of Jewish Libraries has been invaluable in pursuing my goals and staying abreast of the latest trends and technologies in cultural heritage preservation and judaica librarianship.
My passion for genealogy and heritage research was ignited by the stories of my own family, who fled antisemitic pogroms in Romania and Imperial Russia. This passion has been a guiding force in my life. Over the years, I have delved into numerous projects, from uncovering my own family's history to assisting others in their quests for knowledge about their roots. I have developed a keen eye for detail, honed my research skills, and gained experience in managing and preserving historical documents. The MLIS program has significantly enhanced my research skills, an essential aspect of my interest in genealogy and heritage research. It has provided me with sophisticated methodologies and tools for conducting historical and archival research, enabling me to delve deeper into family and community histories.
Through participating in various group projects throughout my coursework, I have gained considerable insights into the dynamics of teamwork and collaboration. These experiences have not only taught me the importance of collective effort but have also instilled key skills and values essential for success in any team-oriented environment. Group projects have exposed me to a wide range of perspectives, showcasing the strength that diversity brings to problem-solving and creativity. Learning to appreciate and integrate different viewpoints has been pivotal in reaching more comprehensive and innovative solutions. This exposure has also taught me the importance of flexibility—adapting to new ideas, changing plans, and shifting roles as needed to achieve the best possible outcome.