Works in Progress

I remember someone once saying “it is not how they come in: it is how they leave.” If we take education seriously, it is easy to be discouraged by some of the students that enter our libraries. We need to remember that they come from all backgrounds. Some of them have had the benefit of a good secondary education, however some were not afforded that privilege. Some have had fewer life experiences than others. Then there are those who seem to struggle with life management. First-year students in particular may fumble their way through a year or two.

Looking back, I remember how confused and clueless I was as a freshman. I do not remember how many times I embarrassed myself. I also struggled with managing time and assignment workloads. I remember once entering the wrong class sitting through roll call, and even answering to the wrong name because I thought the instructor was mispronouncing my name. My first couple of years was lackluster to say the least.

It has been my privilege to see many students blossom. Some of the most hapless freshmen can become competent students and capable adults by graduation. We play a part in that transition. It is important to keep in mind that all students are a work in progress. Every time we help a student get over his or her fear of the computer or the OPAC, or every time we help them become more information literate, we move them closer to being the person that they are capable of being.