As an aspiring archivist, I always look for opportunities to develop my skills in order to prepare myself for a professional career.
So, during my summer vacation from Georgia Southern University, I began volunteering with Augusta University’s Special Collections and Archives. Working at both the Reese and Greenblatt Libraries, I have gained practical experience in accessioning records, along with housing and processing the Georgia Association of Nursing Students (GANS) scrapbooks.
The scrapbooks are from the GANS School of Nursing Athens (SONAT) chapter of MCG and document the many events the GANS-SONAT chapter has participated in from 1988 up to 2012. GANS SONAT helps nursing students on the MCG satellite campus network through activities such as career fairs. Additionally, this chapter participated in community outreach services such as Relay for Life, and bonding activities for students such as tailgating events.
I’ve also helped with a few rehousing projects, such as rehousing slides from the Greenblatt Medical Library and newspaper clippings from the Reese Library. This has allowed me to apply some of my previous archival experience and learn more about archival techniques and practices when it comes to rehousing materials.
My experience with the Special Collections and Archives has been nothing short of rewarding, not only did I gain hands-on archival experience, but I also learned more about my hometown of Augusta.
This was a humbling experience for me, as I was unaware of the deep and rich history of Augusta, and the many historical institutions that exist within the city. When I was not volunteering with the Archives, I found myself exploring museums, libraries, and participating in tours on my own accord to learn more about the place I called home.
During my internship, I’ve also had the great pleasure of meeting and working with the incredible team of Augusta University’s Special Collections and Archives, Courtney Berge, Renée Sharrock, and Aaron Hayes, all of whom are dedicated to the archival field and preserving the history of AU and the CSRA. They have all welcomed me with open arms, which has made my experience with the Archives all the more enjoyable. I’ve learned so much more about archival collections this summer thanks to their help and guidance, and have made connections that I hope will continue far into the future.
I am greatly appreciative to have had the opportunity to work with Augusta University’s Archives and Special Collections. I plan to take this experience with me as I continue my academic and professional career, as I work to become an archivist myself in the future.
