As a non-traditional student, William Johnoff’s job as a student assistant at the Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences Library & Student Success Center allows him to balance his time in meaningful ways. Johnoff has also discovered new qualities in himself through the role. We interviewed Johnoff, one of nine recipients of the 2022 University Libraries Student Employee Scholarship, about himself, his work experience and his advice to other students.
Tell us about yourself!
My name is William Johnoff. I'm a non-traditional 4+ year college student who's currently looking to major in computer science and engineering.
I am an avid tech enthusiast; I enjoy tinkering with my self-built gaming PC and other personal devices (which has gotten me into some trouble sometimes!). I also enjoy video gaming, whether it be on my consoles, phone, PC or anything in between. I'm originally from Toledo, Ohio, and it's where I spent much of my childhood growing up. Looking to the future, I would love to be able to work from home so I could be around my future family.
What initially drew you to work with University Libraries as a student employee?
Knowing that I could do my job and complete homework if time allowed was a huge draw for me. I've been a continuous student for over two years now, including summers. I am constantly looking for ways to accelerate my graduation progress now that I've been in school for so long and the flexibility of working at Libraries has allowed me to take more classes than other jobs might.
What is something you’ve learned by working for University Libraries?
Historically, I've never seen myself as a leader, but being older than all my co-workers by a good amount has them naturally looking to me for advice and experience in the world. I also found that I don't mind being put in that position either; I enjoy helping people to not make the same mistakes I made when I was younger and offering advice where I can.
How will this scholarship impact your time as a student at Ohio State?
This scholarship allows me to save more of my work-study income to put towards housing when I graduate. It also allows me to pay off more of my student loans from my first college experience..
What would you say to other students who are considering working for University Libraries?
I try to encourage people to take work-study jobs, especially in areas they might not have too much knowledge or expertise in. These experiences can help immensely to shape who you are as an individual as well as provide valuable insight into what skills you can bring to any workforce.