Spotlight: Distance Education
China-native, Canada resident and University of Alabama student Guikang Jin takes advantage of the real-time distance education classes offered by SLIS.
Hometown: Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China
Major: Library and Information Studies
Anticipated Graduation Date: August 2011
Undergrad University, Major and Graduation Date: Fudan University, Shanghai, Bachelor of Computer Science, 1985
Why you chose your major at SLIS:
I have been a part of the library community since 2003, when I enrolled as a student in the library technician program at Seneca College (Ontario), and worked part-time at both public libraries and college library. I enjoy using my expertise in information technology, combined with my newly- acquired knowledge in library science, to help people search, select and evaluate information they need in this new era, in which information is overwhelming and many people have to seek help from information professionals.
Why you chose UA:
UA-SLIS employs the state-of-art distance-education module (real-time instruction), which allows me to continue working full-time and taking online courses simultaneously. I am grateful for having the exceptional faculty, dedicated administration and support services.
Career goal:
After graduation, I’d like to work as electronic resources / metadata / IT librarian. In the mean time I hope to spend some time at the reference desk to help people with their information needs. In the future, I aspire to run for public office as I believe I can make positive contribution to my community.
Best thing about college so far:
Our 5th Dimension is a wonderful community, where students come from 22 different states and overseas, all of whom have diverse background that truly enrich our collective learning experiences.