Leah Collins’ love for reading was rekindled when she joined University Libraries as a student employee. Collins serves as a student assistant in Circulation at Thompson Library. As a student employee, Collins has grown as an individual and cherishes the connections created by books. We interviewed Collins, one of nine recipients of the 2022 University Libraries Student Employee Scholarship, about herself, her work experience and her advice to other students.
Tell us a bit about yourself!
My name is Leah Collins. I’m a fourth-year majoring in psychology and I’m from Westerville, Ohio. I graduate in the fall and am planning on going on to grad school for a master’s in social work. I hope to work in the school system in the future!
What initially drew you to working with University Libraries as a student employee?
I have always loved reading and it has been my favorite pastime ever since I can remember. When I was younger, in middle school and high school, I would spend hours reading and jumping into the world of whatever book I had in front of me. The books I read were usually Jane Austen and her classics, and they were an escape from the stress of school and life in general. I love that books connect us to our creativity and imagination and to other people who share the same love of reading. This is what drew me to working at University Libraries, especially Thompson Library, considering how many books they have! I thought that it would be a perfect fit for me because I have always felt at home in libraries.
What is something you’ve learned by working for University Libraries?
One thing I have learned while working at Thompson Library for the past few years is that no matter what happens in the world, books are something that can always keep people connected. If I had not been working at University Libraries, I do not think I would have been reminded of this and might not have rekindled my love for reading and books, especially during college which can be a super busy time of life with limited time to do activities that we enjoy.
How will this scholarship impact your time as a student at Ohio State?
This scholarship will be super helpful in paying for my last semester of school, especially since I will be a fifth-year student. It will make a significant difference in being able to save up for graduate school. I will be less worried about finances and will be able to enjoy my last semester of college.
What would you say to other students who are considering working for University Libraries?
I would encourage every student to find a job working for University Libraries. It is a great environment and the people are awesome too! It is definitely somewhere that you can not only make money, but also grow as an individual. It’s an amazing opportunity!