LEEP Student Feedback
Richard Pearce-Moses (MS 2001), Deputy Director for Technology and Information Resources, Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records; President, Society of American Archivists, 2005-2006
I was part of LEEP cohort 3.2 and graduated in 2001.
In spite of nearly twenty years experience in archives and libraries, I found the LEEP
program challenging and rewarding. I was very impressed that the
faculty respected the knowledge I brought to the program, and they
allowed me to adapt coursework to further my knowledge rather than
covering familiar territory. Several years later, I continue to rely on
what I learned in the LEEP program.
The LEEP program was a great way for me to get my library degree.
Distance learning gave me lots of flexibility, and I wasted no time in a
car commuting to a classroom. The on-campus seminars gave me the chance
to build close relationships with the other students, and the online
interaction provided me with rich, thought-provoking discussions.
Sally Ma (MS 2007)
I was hesitant about the LEEP program at first, not sure if I wanted to commit to the weekly synchronous classes or the on-campus session every semester. But I soon realized that those two components are the main reasons why I have enjoyed my graduate studies so much: it helps build a strong sense of camaraderie that I would have thought impossible for an online program. I came into the LEEP program at (a naive) 22, right after receiving my bachelor's degree and with very little library experience. I have had classes with a library director, a lawyer, an Army sergeant, a stay-at-home mother, and a teacher in Hong Kong. The diversity among my classmates made for interesting discussions and points of views, allowing everyone to learn from each other's experiences.
The support outside the classroom is unbelievable. Whether I needed tech support, books (delivered right to my home!) through Academic Outreach Library Services, or a roommate for my next trip to Illinois, everything I needed seem to be a quick email or phone call away. My graduate advisor was an excellent match and open to any questions and concerns I had. GSLIS definitely takes good care of their LEEP students and it shows in the pride students have in their education.
Thanks to LEEP, I am much more technically savvy, have a new appreciation for group work, and my time management skills are top-notch. I highly recommend LEEP for anyone interested in a challenging yet fulfilling distance learning program.
Sandra Wiles (MS 2005), Librarian, Phoenix Art Museum Art Research Library, Phoenix, AZ
LEEP is the most rewarding, educational experience imaginable. Each student in
the program is encouraged to draw upon his or her existing skills and past
employment in any field to enrich discussions and assignments. Meanwhile, the
faculty represent all areas of current research and scholarship and may even
be providing instruction from a host of other recognized institutions and organizations.
I have never before benefited from so much sharing of information, knowledge
and resources amongst a group of people in any other situation I have encountered.
The different backgrounds and locations of the professors and students provide
so much insight into other cultures, countries and career opportunities. I
graduated in 2005 and continue to consult with my professors and classmates
on a regular basis on everything from cataloging and reference questions to
professional advocacy. LEEP boosted my confidence in myself while impressing
upon me the importance of contributing to the le! arning community and to the
success of all libraries and librarians everywhere. The outstanding quality
of LEEP instruction and services has forever altered the personal and professional
paths of my life.
Jomichele Herrera Seidl (MS 2004)
When I began the GSLIS LEEP program I expected to get a top-notch education, and I did. But what came as a surprise was the warmth and intellectual passion of my teachers, and the academic commitment of my fellow students. There was such a feeling of goodwill and support: I had finally found my tribe!
After graduating, as I began my job search, I was able to call upon GSLIS professors and administrators for coaching on resume writing and salary negotiations. Their coaching gave me the confidence to make the leap from my blue-collar background, into the culture of the professional world.
My daughter is now enrolled in the GSLIS LEEP program and is enjoying the experience immensely. She’s had awesome professors and fascinating coursework. As a distance learner, she’s been able to move around and experience life in three different cities and two countries, all the while, moving forward with her education goals.
To prospective students: if you are considering a career in Library and Information Science, this is the place to be!
Jodi Weisz-Fulgione (MS 2002), founder and director of Holy Cross School Library and Media Center in The Bronx, New York
Is there a library school in the world capable of arousing a love for storytelling as much as a passion for government documents? Is there a library school in the world so progressive that it redefines the great potential for diversity in the greatest profession in the world? Yes, there is such a library school! In a small city, in the heart of Illinios there is such a place called the Graduate School of Library and Information Science. Here, the most diverse and promising future librarians come together to study, grow, learn, risk, thrive, and strive together--all because they have found a profession that is no longer a job, but a call. Do you have a hunch that librarianship is a sublime profession? Then you will be at home among hundreds of other like-minded friends. Invigorating technology, over-the-top professional administrators, dynamic, accessible professors await. A world of lasting contacts, intellectual intrigue, and creative support is the norm. What does a community in which everyone is in love with what they are doing look like? It is an electrifying experience that will take you years to digest. It is a place so supportive you will be propelled to go out into the world and make whatever library, whatever information center you work in, a tiny reflection of that great place just because of how grateful you are to have once been there.
Allison Arnold, LEEP student, Wilmette, IL
I've been thoroughly satisfied with the LEEP program--the selection and quality of courses, flexibility and the incredible faculty and staff. Because of this positive experience, I take every opportunity that I have to share my experience with the program. Although many people are initially skeptical about the quality of distance education, my enthusiasm for this outstanding program tends to open their minds. Upon graduation, I plan to direct my career towards web- based learning in regards to interface and instructional design. I've appreciated the encouragement to explore 'non-traditional' careers in the field.
Katie Eich (MS January 2000), Information Technology Librarian, Cook Memorial Public Library, Libertyville, IL
I can say with confidence that the hard work required to complete the LEEP program was worth it. I worked in libraries before I took classes for my masters degree but now I have a lot more to offer my employer and in turn, my employer has a lot more to offer me. The LEEP aspect of my degree has turned out to be quite an asset. The courses I took pushed me to learn skills that might have intimidated me otherwise. I now have technological experience that few others have. My LEEP degree helped me obtain a new position at Cook Library, Information Technology Librarian.
One class, Interfaces to Information Systems (LIS450IIL), has had particular impact on my daily work. I design Microsoft Access databases for staff and the interfaces I create can make or break the end result. I now design these interfaces with the users instead of for them. As I evaluate products for purchase by the library I keep the design fundamentals I learned in this class in mind. I share suggestions for improvements with vendors confidently and hopefully my contributions will make a difference for all users in the future.
All the courses I took through LEEP gave me a solid foundation of knowledge in Library Science that supports my work and the services I provide the library district every day.
Lynn Tsumoto Dix, LEEP student and Information Architect/Taxonomist, Bechtel Corporation, San Francisco, CA
In my new position at Bechtel, a global engineering and construction company, I am responsible for the taxonomy of the company's Intranet. The knowledge I've gained [from GSLIS] classes is invaluable and being put right to work; I wouldn't be tackling this job if I hadn't been in LEEP. I've just been asked to develop a strategy and procedures for developing a taxonomy at the overall, corporate level and also for discipline specific Web sites. These include corporate functions such as human resources as well as engineering, plant design, telecommunications, etc. Again, I have to say that I am so grateful for your teaching and wonderful support. I approach these tasks with some confidence mainly because I've taken courses across a wide range of subjects and had to produce so much. A case in point is Storytelling, which one might not think applied to special librarians. It taught and proved to us extremely nervous, novice, self-conscious storytellers that by selecting stories that resonate with you and with lots of practice you can connect and effectively communicate with audiences. I sometimes feel like I'm having to write papers at work. I write a report, and it comes back a couple of times with questions and comments. I keep being asked to do more, so I think the knowledge you've shared with us LEEPers is making an impact. Many thanks to all of you.
Lora Thompson (MS December 1999), Medical Librarian, Frank J. D'Agostino MD Medical Library
I managed to do the whole graduate program in a year while working part-time. This program does require brief trips to the campus, but it is so worth it. The school is staffed by incredible people and the library system is huge and inspiring to future librarians! They provided excellent access to the libraries on campus. We had incredible support both electronically and in person. I gained so much by doing the distance program. I became very skilled at HTML and distance education. I can build a website and know how to analyze good and bad sites. I can build a web tutorial. I can service a person in a distance program. I attended classes with people from all around the globe and heard about library issues from around the world. I became a globally aware librarian. I was able to benefit from Professors with special skills from around the United States because a distance program allows that. I lived in VT at the start of my program and came from a small private school. I suddenly had access to one of the largest library systems in the country.
Diane Rein, LEEP student and faculty member in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Cincinnati
I soundly endorse the LEEP program. The course material is challenging, the students are of high quality, the faculty are almost embarrassingly dedicated. They have developed a unique method of synchronous/asynchronous distance learning that is leagues (leaps) beyond anything I have ever participated in, which includes almost two decades of classroom teaching myself. It is not like anything I have ever experienced or practiced before in a classroom. It is impossible to easily explain the phenomenon that has arisen in this program, both in pedagogy and the concept of "distributive learning." You see, there is no "distance" in the LEEP program at all. I call it "distributive learning" instead. You learn not only from your instructor who becomes more of a mentor, but from each and every individual in the class. It is learning on steroids. The learning process becomes logarithmatic. More importantly, LEEP focuses on the philosophy of LIS and information delivery that would go to the very heart of the ethics that biomedical professions already practice. This added dimension to the LEEP program would be greatly appreciated by not only physicians, but by all practicing professionals in just about any discipline, wishing to cross-over into the library sciences. I unabashedly fully endorse this program.
Cyndy Colletti (MS January 2001), Literacy Program Manager, Illinois State Library Literacy Office
I began at the Illinois State Library Literacy Office 8 years ago as the Family Literacy Consultant, managing that state funded grant project. I worked with libraries and literacy programs throughout Illinois to create and enhance their ability to provide literacy services to at-risk families. During this time, the family literacy grant initiative grew from 14 projects funded with $400,000 to 45 projects funded with $1.5 million.
I finished my MS in January 2001 and was promoted to Literacy Program Manager February 1. I will now oversee seven literacy grant programs administered by the Illinois State Library. These initiatives furnish grants and other assistance to libraries and agencies who provide community volunteer tutoring, workplace literacy programs, family literacy programs, summer literacy enhancement projects, and literacy programs in domestic violence shelters among others.
As this is a professional librarian position, I would not have had the credentials to receive the promotion if I did not have the MS. LEEP enhanced my writing skills (thanks to "Writing in Library Science" with Leigh Star). LEEP, with its constant emphasis on group work, increased my ability to work effectively in committees. LEEP took me from a student who could use email and word processing and not much more to someone who is comfortable with a variety of technical tools. Even if I am not proficient with the technology myself, I can understand what is being explained to me.
Perhaps most important to me was the fact that all my professors agreed with my viewpoint that literacy is an integral library service. I was able to use my classes to enhance my work. In "Grantwriting" I developed a Request for Proposal for a grant that is now available from our office. In my independent study, I developed a web site that made the philosophy behind Parent-Child Activities used by family literacy projects explicit. In addition, the web site http://leep.lis.uiuc.edu/seworkspace/ccollett/storykit/sitemap.html made a collection of Parent-Child activities widely available to libraries and literacy projects. It is now linked to our office web site.
It was a long, hard road. I worked full time on a job that requires regular travel for the entire time I was a LEEP student. I am divorced and have two daughters who were 10 and 14 when I began and are now 14 and 18. I took time off work when I had to. I took time away from the girls when I had to. LEEP gave me the flexibility to maneuver home, job, and school and somehow handle it all, although I had my share of nail biting and high stress levels. I am happy to say that I now can again read books for fun, walk my dog and talk on the phone to my friends. Those same friends are glad I'm no longer complaining about the LEEP workload. I'm glad it's over, but I am also very glad that I did it.
Connie Frankenfeld (MS August 1999), Digital Programs Librarian, Illinois State Library
When I started working at the Illinois State Library I took an entry-level position because I knew I wanted to work in a library, and I was willing to work my way up. I worked hard and received a promotion, but it soon became clear that I couldn't go far without a master's degree. I quickly learned that there are only two programs in Illinois that confer master's degrees in library science. One is in Chicago and one is the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Some of my colleagues, even the director, had been able to flex their work time and earn a degree by taking classes on Fridays in Champaign. However, it didn't seem realistic for me to attempt to balance longer work days, ninety-mile commutes in all kinds of weather, family life with my husband's irregular schedule, and hours of studying. So I became resigned to foregoing any more advancement.
That's when I discovered the LEEP program. The very first classes of this distance education program were in progress through the Graduate School of Library and Information Science (GSLIS), the top rated library science school in the country. I had just enough time to complete the enrollment and acceptance process to join the second cohort.
The LEEP program at GSLIS was a wonderful experience, mentally challenging, socially rewarding, and professionally stimulating. As I worked my way through online syllabi, Web postings, and classes in chat rooms, I discovered a much "bigger picture" in librarianship, developed skills and understandings concerning computers, and wrestled with issues of information management.
All of these experiences have served me well since my promotion to Digital Programs Librarian at the Illinois State Library with Find-It! Illinois, a program from Jesse White, Secretary of State and State Librarian and mandated by the General Assembly, that brings digital services and Illinois documents to one Web portal for easy access by Illinois citizens. (http://finditillinois.org) Skills I learned through LEEP enabled me to do the necessary research in support of establishing Library Automation and Technology, a new division at the Illinois State Library. LEEP classes gave me the context for helping to write a successful federal grant application that brought nearly $400,000 to support the Find-It! Illinois program. Contacts established through GSLIS gave me an appreciation for the strong collaborative tradition of the library field, which enable me to build bridges across state lines as Find-It! Illinois moves toward interoperability of systems to access digital information around the country.
Jane Halsall (MS May 1998), Head of Young People's Services, McHenry Public Library
Since I earned (and as the first LEEP cohort, I earned the hard way) my MS, I've:
- Been made head of Young People's Services at the McHenry Public Library
- Been awarded the North Suburban Library Systems Innovation Grant in both 1999 and 2000 for new teen oriented projects. The first was to put core collections of Graphic Novels in both the 2 high school libraries as well as the public library and to host a Comic-Con here at the McHenry Public Library. (150 teens showed up.) The second grant, also in conjunction with the high school, was to create an art display area in the Teen section to display student art. Entitled "Untitled at the Library," three art shows are being run based on materials in the Teen book collection.
- Been voted "Public Staff Member of the Year by the North Suburban Library system in 1998.
- Been a speaker at the 2000 Illinois Library Association Conference at Peoria, Illinois.
- Become a reviewer for School Library Journal with 14 reviews in print.
But that's all just resume stuff. What I really got from LEEP was the realization that I was capable of doing just about anything I set my mind to--and even excelling at it. Everyone at GSLIS from students to Dean, was encouraging, supportive, and approving. My favorite story I tell on myself was phoning Carol Devoss in Admissions about my GRE and having her tell me to "dress up, put on make-up, hold my head high, and go in and take that test." I walked into the testing room only to discover that I was old enough to have given birth to everyone in the room. Carol's good wishes made me brave and confident. Everyone in LEEP even to this day has gotten so very, very much from the faculty and even more from their fellow students. We have had the training to become consummate professionals; even more, we have had the camaraderie to become even better human beings.
Becky Robinson (MS January 1999), K-12 Media Specialist, Wethersfield School, Kewanee, IL
It's hard to limit my feelings about the LEEP program to a few sentences. It was a godsend to me since I live so far away from any university that offered a master's degree in Library Science. I had just about given up on getting my master's. My undergraduate degree was a long time ago (1973) and I needed an updated training boost. Things have changed just a little bit in our field since 1973! The LEEP experience has assisted in me many areas, but three come immediately to mind.
- The people and contacts I have made are so valuable to me--I am no longer an island out here in rural Illinois.
- The knowledge I have added in information retrieval, databases, and programming (just to name a few) I use everyday in my job as a K-12 Media Specialist at Wethersfield School in Kewanee, IL.
- The amount of technological expertise I have acquired and used has made me the go-to person in my District for internet, email, listserv information, as well as, providing the access to both electronic and print research tools.
Sally Schoenberg (MS May 1999), Media Specialist, Grayslake, IL
I am presently the Media Specialist in a K-2 school in Grayslake, Illinois. There is no way that I would be in this position if it were not for the LEEP program. I was an at-home mom for many years, having taught elementary school years before. Once my divorce was final, it was imperative that I work. My dream had always been to leave the classroom and work in the school library. However, I could not figure out how I would be able to work, raise two children, and attain the coursework that I would need. There are very few places to attain an MLS anymore. The answer to my dilemma--LEEP. This program allowed me to gain a quality education without having to relocate. I communicated on a daily basis with people from many different cultures, different geographic areas, different career backgrounds. However, we all shared one goal! I felt a true sense of community and support from my fellow students, and staff.
I love my job. I will always be grateful that the University of Illinois offered this educational opportunity.
Rose Allen (MS January 2001), Young Adult Librarian, Mount Prospect Public Library, Mount Prospect, IL
I had been employed by the Mount Prospect Public Library (IL) for almost 14 years as a library assistant. My primary duties included processing interlibrary loan requests, working at the Adult Reference Desk with the librarians, and assisting the Young Adult Librarian with selection and programming. I really enjoy public service, and I find much fulfillment in assisting patrons with their recreational, informational, and their life-long learning needs. For many years, my goal was to earn a Master's Degree so that I could be an authentic librarian, and get paid as a professional. I was introduced to LEEP by my Department Head, via an article that appeared in his U of I alumni magazine. He knew that I wanted to earn my Master's, but I had few options since I had to continue to work full time. LEEP proved to be just what I needed because it afforded me this coveted option. My long term goal was to specialize in Adult/Young Adult Services after I completed my degree, so I contemplated moving on if a position did not open up at Mount Prospect Public Library. During my last semester in LEEP, the Young Adult Librarian decided to move on to new challenges, so I applied for that position. When I was offered the position, I was just ecstatic because the salary that I was offered was more than I had decided that I would accept! My library director informed me that they valued my expertise and dedication and that the library would benefit tremendously from the expertise that I would bring to the position. I was most pleased that I would not have to relocate, and that I could use my library school expertise to enhance our young adult service goals. I am so excited about my status as a new librarian, and I am so grateful for the professors and staff at the Graduate School of Library and Information Science at the University of Illinois for providing me with an excellent education.
Also read an article about Rose in the Mount Prospect Journal : Page 1, Page 2
Carlos Melian (MS August 1998), Technical Services Librarian, Ronald Williams Library - Northeastern Illinois University
I was part of the first group of LEEP students when the program started in 1996 and it was an invaluable experience for me, personally and professionally. I had been working at the library at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago for ten years but needed a Master's of Library Science for a librarian position at NEIU or another library. Due to personal circumstances, I was not able to leave my job and pursue an MLS degree at University of Illinois or any other university. The LEEP scheduling option allowed me to continue working at NEIU and finish my degree within two years. Soon after graduating, I was hired as a Technical Services Librarian at NEIU, where I am currently working.
Aside from the accessibility of a graduate education for many students who, like myself, would be unable to pursue a library degree, there are a number of very positive outcomes to a library education through LEEP. On a personal level, one develops strong relationships with classmates and colleagues that continue well past graduation, much like any on-campus educational experience. Beyond the personal, LEEP is an excellent learning environment in two critical areas for information professionals today--group work and technology. The experience that LEEP provides for working in groups, using alternate forms of communication (communicating remotely, using various technologies) and with a diverse group of individuals (culturally, geographically, professionally), is invaluable in any library today. Also, one quickly adapts to using technology to access, distribute, and manage information, a required skill in today's libraries. This not only involves learning specific software or computer systems, but thinking about information, and the library, in a technology rich environment. Finally, speaking from the academic environment that I work in, distance education is in high demand and part of almost every institution's future mission. My experience with LEEP lets me to participate in the current discourse from the vantage point of a librarian and an experienced participant.
Renelda Sells (MS January 1999), corporate librarian, Communications Equity Associates Inc., Tampa, FL
Associate Dean Linda Smith gave me a tip about a job opening.... I responded to the job listing on Friday, and had an interview on Monday morning, at which time they offered me a job on the spot. The employer said that she received a lot of applications, but she was really impressed with my corporate background and, of course, the LEEP experience! The person in charge of research has no library experience and she wants to turn the library functions over to me. What an opportunity. I couldn't have designed a more perfect job.
Hal Bloom (MS 1998), Harvard Business School Library, Boston, MA
I've enjoyed just about every aspect of LEEP, and will definitely miss the day-to-day interactions with both students and faculty. I've learned a lot, and the meshing between learning and work has been particularly rewarding. The LEEP experience has been as real as any other, and I'm very grateful to GSLIS for offering it.
Sarah Crary Gregory (MS May 2000), legal reference/electronic services librarian, Paul Boley Law Library, Northwestern School of Law, Portland, OR
I feel tremendously lucky to have landed in LEEP/UIUC. I've been challenged, have had presented different perspectives about the work I'm doing in the LIS area, and have learned more than I would have dreamed possible about what I can be doing in two, five, or 10 years....The tech staff does a great job of doing all they can to make the technology do what it needs to do....the weekend back in Chambana is a good thing and well-timed. Overall, I love what I'm doing with this program. After my maternity leave, I chose to extend my leave and take more classes. LEEP makes that possible.
Sean Scott, Portland, OR
"Anyone who thinks that distance education lacks camaraderie has never seen us in action. When I flew back for the brief on-campus session (a few days every semester) it was great to see everyone again, but it was hard to believe we had been apart." --excerpted from a letter to the Oregonian
And from a visitor to our virtual classroom . . .
"I was a guest speaker for Christine Jenkin's LEEP course. Between the two of us, we were supplying the tech staff with all sorts of computer-multimedia challenges. Not only were they up to the task, but they put me at ease, explained what was going on, and interacted with the students in unobtrusive yet helpful ways. If all tech people were like this, the world would truly be a better place: they are patient, not condescending, and supply intelligent support. The course itself was a real trip everyone should try this. Christine really takes advantage of a wide range of technical options pictures, the Web, small and large chat groups, etc. The students were clearly engaged and quite responsive to her offerings. Few left the group chat even during the break! I was impressed with the level of involvement a student could feel while sitting at a computer in New Hampshire. They are clearly getting a lot from this experience." -Frances F. Jacobson, Librarian, University Laboratory High School, Champaign, IL
