Conclusions and Affirmation Statement

Reflection

As I reflect upon the past three years, I am much thankful to the Library and Information Science program at San Jose State University for all of its online courses. Without this great innovation of education, I am not sure if I could finish the program, or it will take me much longer. Even though I am at the end of an arduous and challenging journey, I am still amazed that I have actually completed the program because at times I struggled to fit it into my busy life with a full-time and a part-time jobs, family responsibilities, and a volunteer ministry at a community church. I am so very happy and delighted that my childhood dream is now within reach. Lately I have daydreamed much about my near future as a librarian, helping patrons searching for their desired information. I can see myself doing all kinds of work in a library because I intentionally did not specialize in any field. I personally think a general public librarian would be a better fit for me because I have been educated and trained in all areas. I am able to start on any task like reference, children, acquisition, catalogue, budget, marketing, archive, etc. All of these tasks were recently reviewed by way of 14 different competencies in a very careful and thoughtful e-Portfolio. Two months ago when I set out to write the introduction, I was in a great anxiety because I did not know for sure how to write. Much thank to Dr. David Loertscher, who was patient enough to explain to me how to do it. I then spent many arduous hours to read, research, analyze, and write. Due to the demanding of times for works and other responsibilities, I spent many sleepless nights to get the competencies done. I breathe with much relief now that it is over. I can continue to daydream about my future career and, in the same time, start searching for any opening position at near and far libraries. I understand it is difficult with this economic crisis, but the joy is I am very hopeful for a new change in my life now.

Strengths

Because my undergraduate study is Computer Science, my greatest strength is basically anything related to computer work like programming, online searching, creating websites and databases. When I served my internship, these skills were quite evidenced in all my works, and my manager was very well pleased with my performance. Not only do I know these skills, I also constantly expand my knowledge by reading more into computer and Internet technologies. The more I read, the more I am fascinated by all new innovations. My other strength is my ability to relate to others on a personal basis. As a clinic clerk for more than 12 years now, I have acquired many experiences as how to talk to people and resolve personal conflicts. This strength has given me much confidence when I talk to people. I understand that as a librarian there will be times I will have to deal with difficult patrons, but it does not worry me at all. I am confident that when I show them my sincere care, it will dispel all their frustrations.

Growth Plan & Professional Goals

As I alluded earlier in my reflection, it has always been my dream to be a librarian, and I can start this career any where. It is not my ambition to make any major change in library service because it has been quite organized; however, it is my ambition to uphold all principles and regulations which set forth by the ALA Bills of Rights. I am eager to use my strength in computer technology to support my coworkers and patrons. I will continue to use my talent of personal courtesy to meet patrons at their level and respond to their search for information. I also plan to reach out to the underprivileged and the immigrants and introduce to them the power of self education through library's materials.

As for my professional goals, I will first of all collaborate with my coworkers to serve as a team because I always believe that it is the team which makes the organization strong. Second I will learn from experienced librarians because I think they are more effective than any theory which I have learned in class. Learning from them and working with them will ensure my success. Third I will take my time to work myself up the ladder of administration. I know some day I will get there, but I do not imagine myself pushing for it. Last but not least, I will constantly educate myself about library service, policies and regulations from the ALA, social trends, and of course computer technology.

Affirmation Statement

I, Diem-Trang Trinh, attest that all introductory, reflective, and evidentiary work contained in this portfolio is mine and mine alone, except where indicated as a group or team project, and has been prepared solely by me.