IMPORTANT CONTACT NUMBERS!

(Dr. Virginia Wallace, WVVA Facilitator: 803-777-8894)

The Graduate School: 803-777-2990

Office of SLIS Director: 803-777-3858

Student Services Director: 803-777-0270

Student Services Graduate Students Admission Coordinator: 803-777-5067

Distance Eduction Coordinator: 803-777-8068

Technology Support for Blackboard: 803-777-6015

Dates of Interest

As we prepare for the 2009/2010 school year, some dates to keep in mind concerning admission to the USC MLIS program are as follows:

1. Saturday, July 25 Orientation at Waynesboro High School in Waynesboro, VA, from 10 AM - 3 PM
2. Saturday, August 22 Celebration for those in the Cohort whose graduation is in 2009.
3. Saturday, October 17 E-portfolio Workshop at Waynesboro High, 10 - 3

We are holding the celebration at the Waynesboro Country Club at 2 PM.

That will take care of our onsite meetings for 2009. The 2010 dates follow:

1. Saturday, March 6 Internship Workshop at Waynesboro High School in Waynesboro, VA from 10 AM - 3 PM
2. Saturday, July 24 Orientation Workshop and E-portfolio Workshop both from 10 - 3 PM
3. August 28 Celebration for those graduating anytime in 2010!

Update about the SLIS Masters and the WVVA Cohort

I am thinking spring!

The University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science has a presence in a number of states via e-learning. Through the distance education program, a student can complete the MLIS without campus time. Members of the faculty and staff usually try to visit out-of-state students once or more during the duration of the 4-year program.

Most students do not use the entire 4 years. Some complete the work in 2 years. We encourage those working fulltime to take no more than 2 courses per semester. USC SLIS is set up on 4 terms: fall, spring, Summer Session I, and Summer Session II.

Recently, an e-portfolio workshop was held in Waynesboro, VA. The e-portfolio is an important piece because it acts as an exit proficiency: a place to demonstrate what one has accomplished throughout the program. Many use parts of the e-portfolio when job hunting!

IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES:

1. May 23, 2009 = Orientation onsite for the WVVA Cohort for those beginning course work on June 1.

2. May 23, 2009 = WVVA Cohort Internship workshop for those interested in having an internship before graduation. It is a transition experience.

3. June 1, 2009 = Summer Session I begins.

4. July 25, 2009 = Orientation onsite for the WVVA Cohort for those beginning classes in August 2009 for the fall term.

The USC School of Library & Information Science Webpage

For those considering an MLIS program, we welcome you to explore SLIS as a possibility. Here are some links on our webpage that will be especially informative and helpful:
1. In a bar across the page, choose For Future Students and For Current Students. There you will find Class Schedules and Course Descriptions.

2. In the lefthand frame, be certain to click on Student Services and scroll their page for all they offer.

3. The Site Index is v-e-r-y helpful. By browsing the various topics, one can become familiar with much that goes on at USC School of Library and Information Science.

4. As facilitator of the WV and VA Cohort, I would be happy to answer your questions: Virginia Wallace #864-850-9128 or contact Tilda Reeder in Student Services #803-777-5067.

How are we ending the year?

The WVVA Cohort is going strong. We added 14 for Spring 2009 and that is exciting. The next deadline will happen too quickly; therefore, if you are interested in the University of South Carolina Masters of Library and Information Science, now is the time to begin the admissions process.
Deadline for admission to Summer I 2009 Cohort = April 15, 2009
Onsite orientation at Waynesboro High School = May 23, 2009
Classes begin for Summer 1 2009 = June 1, 2009

If you have questions about the online admission packet ($50 application fee), please contact
Student Services Graduate Students Admission Coordinator: 803-777-5067. Her name is Tilda Reeder and she is v-e-r-y helpful and will help you in any way she can to make the admissions process as painless as possible.

For those already in the program, look ahead for these workshops:
1. E-portfolio workshop ---------------March 14, 2009 (If you have not attended, it is a MUST!)
2. Internship workshop----------------May 23, 2009 (Don't attend too soon but at the same time, don't wait too long! If you want an internship or if you are unsure, this is the workshop for you.)

Mark your calendars. Write me if you have questions or concerns or uncertainties. If I don't know the answer, I'll find one ASAP.
Dr. V.

INTERNSHIP WORKSHOP

An important date for cohort members who are thinking about INTERNSHIPS is Saturday, December 6, 2008, at Waynesboro High School at 10 AM.

If you are interested in an internship but cannot make this workshop, there will be another one on May 23, 2009.

Internships can be very helpful to those who are career changers or who hope to move into another area of librarianship. Internships act as a bridge from the career you know to the new career that lies ahead.

Moving toward Orientation!

For those joining the WVVA Cohort for Spring 2009, orientation day is almost here! Orientations are mandatory so mark Saturday, December 6, 2008 on your calendar.

We will meet in the Waynesboro High School Library Media Center from 10 AM - 3 PM. Lunch will be provided. :)

This will be your opportunity to meet Dr. Samantha Hastings, the director of the USC School of Library and Information Science and some fellow cohort students.

VEMA Conference

If you are considering an MLIS degree from USC and will be attending the VEMA Conference at the Richmond Convention Center on November 6 - 7, please stop by the School of Library and Information Science booth in the Exhibit Hall. There will be handouts and a brochure with information to help you with your decision making.

I look forward to talking with you there. There will be a reception for alumni, for present students, and for potential students. Here are the particulars:
College Alumni Gathering
Thursday, November6, 2008
6:00–7:00 pm
University of South Carolina
Salon 3

Value of the Listserv

To those of you considering the USC School of Library and Information Science MLIS and to those of you working on your admission packet, I want to encourage membership in the listserv that I maintain for prospective students.
1. In your email, for TO, put LISTSERV@LISTSERV.SC.EDU.
2. For the SUBJECT, put nothing.
3. For the BODY, put SUBSCRIBE COHORT2008 firstname lastname.

The DEADLINE DATE for application packets for spring 2009 is November 1. The first and most important step is to pay the online application fee of $40.00. The Graduate School will prepare a file on you and each item of the packet that comes in will have a place to go!

It takes a number of weeks for the application packet review; therefore, the onsite orientation at Waynesboro High School is set for Saturday, December 6. The sooner you get your application packet in the better in order to be admitted and receive the letter re the orientation.

I look forward to meeting a new group of students who will become part of the WVVA Cohort, which presently has 85 in the program.
Dr. V.
864-850-9128
wallybug@bellsouth.net

USC MLIS important phone numbers

The Graduate School: 803-777-2990
Office of SLIS Director: 803-777-3858
Student Services Director: 803-777-0270
Student Services Graduate Students Admission Coordinator: 803-777-5067
Distance Eduction Coordinator: 803-777-8068
Technology Support for Blackboard: 803-777-6015

Ning

I thought it might be fun for cohort members to communicate via a Ning. I have set up one: www.wvvacohort.ning.com. Let's see where it goes.

Celebration Time, Come On!

If you are part of the WVVA Cohort and plan to graduate either spring 09 or summer 09 or fall 09, you will want to attend the graduation celebration scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2009, at Waynesboro High School in Waynesboro, VA.

It is too early for details but never too early to set aside the date for a time to congratulate yourself and to be congratulated for a job well done. You will be the proud possessor of a Masters of Library and Information Science degree, a feat about which to brag and celebrate!

IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES

• Deadline for admission to Spring 2009 WVVA Cohort November 1, 2008
• Onsite orientation at Waynesboro High School December 6, 2008
• Beginning of classes for Spring 2009 January 12, 2009
• Deadline for admission to Summer I 2009 Cohort April 15, 2009
• Onsite orientation at Waynesboro High School May 23, 2009
• Classes begin for Summer 1 2009 June 1, 2009
• Deadline for admission to Fall 2009 June 15, 2009
• Onsite orientation at Waynesboro High School July 25, 2009
• Classes begin for Fall 2009 August 20, 2009

The scholarship deadline is March 1 each year.

The 2nd onsite is an e-portfolio workshop. The 3rd is an internship workshop. The 4th is a Celebration upon completion of the program!

1. Internship workshop for those who entered Fall '07, Spring '08, and SS I '08 ----------------------December 6, 2008
2. E-portfolio workshop for those who entered Spring '08, SS I '08, Fall '08, Spring '09 ---------------March 14 2009
3. Internship workshop for those who entered Fall '08 and Spring '09 -------------------------------May 23, 2009

Listserv and Admission Requirements

Although I have covered both the listserv and the requirements in earlier posts, I thought I would do so again to keep them near the top of the blog entries.

LISTSERV INFORMATION:
(1) For the To line, type LISTSERV@LISTSERV.SC.EDU
(2) Leave the Subject line blank
(3) In the body, type SUBSCRIBE COHORT2008 yourfirstname yourlastname.

ADMISSIONS INFORMATION:
Admissions Requirements for the MLIS Program include the following:

1. A completed USC Graduate School Admissions Information Form and a non-refundable $40.00 application fee. This application may be completed by paper or electronically. Go to the home page of the Graduate School and click on "Apply Now" or go directly to the Application.
The Graduate School does not begin a file on you until you pay the $40.00 fee to show that you are serious!

2. An official transcript showing possession of a baccalaureate degree from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting agency. The undergraduate record should show promise for graduate study with a GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).

3. Official transcripts from all other colleges or universities attended.

4. Two letters of reference from persons who can comment directly on the applicant's professional and academic capabilities and potential. For example, college instructors could comment on an applicant's previous academic performance in relation to potential for graduate study; a supervisor/administrator could address job performance and potential for advancement. Letters which speak only of the applicant's personal attributes will not be accepted. Letters from friends and relatives are not acceptable.

5. The School of Library and Information Science requires one of the following:
a. Official score reports showing at least 950 on the combined verbal and quantitative portions of the GRE with a minimum score of at least 500 on the verbal portion OR
b. Official score reports for test showing at least 410 on the Miller Analogies Test.
c.(International students whose native language is not English must also submit an official report showing a minimum score of 570 [230 computer-based total] on the TOEFL exam.)

6. The School of Library and Information Science Supplemental Information Form, which includes a statement of purpose. Download the Supplemental Information Form which is completed along with the Graduate School electronic application. When you write your statement of purpose, please, please include all of the required parts!

http://www.libsci.sc.edu/program/degrees.htm#mlisadmit

Have You Heard?

The University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science has been in Virginia and West Virginia for several years now. Ask around and you will find and can talk with our happy MLIS ALA-approved graduates from previous cohorts.

AND we presently have another cohort underway. It is not too late to become part of the program.

How does the cohort work?
All classes are online.
Virginia and West Virginia students never have to come to the SC campus.
Virginia and West Virginia students never have to have onsites with their classes. (If a class and an instructor were to decide to have one, that would not be a problem.)

INSTATE TUITION IS OFFERED.

There are 4 onsites throughout the entire program: (1) orientation (2) e-portfolio workshop (3) internship workshop (4) in-state graduation celebration to be held in Waynesboro, VA.

Waynesboro High School, Waynesboro, VA is the location of the onsites so that no one has more than a 4-hour drive.
The onsites are one-day, 10 AM - 4 PM events.

How can you find out more?
Ø Go to the SLIS webpage, For Future Students: www.libsci.sc.edu.

Ø Join our listserv: To: LISTSERV@LISTSERV.SC.EDU
Subject: Leave it blank.
Body of message: SUBSCRIBE COHORT2008 firstname lastname

Ø Contact Dr. Virginia Wallace at wallybug@bellsouth.net.


IS THIS PROGRAM FOR YOU? WE BELIEVE SO.
WE ALSO BELIEVE THAT YOU SHOULD TELL YOUR FRIENDS.
THE SLIS MLIS IS USER FRIENDLY WITH INSTRUCTORS WHO LOVE WHAT THEY TEACH AND WANT YOU TO BE SUCCESSFUL!

Don’t delay. To begin classes in Spring ‘09, you need to complete an admissions packet ASAP! The timeline works like this: (1) Online application with $40 online fee and other admission materials should be in by November 1. Getting transcripts and recommendations and taking either the GRE or MAT take time!(2) The Spring ‘09 orientation will be in Waynesboro on Saturday, December 6.
(3) Spring ‘09 classes begin in January ‘09.

Exciting things are happening at SLIS. Become part of a dynamic, ALA-approved Masters program. You won’t regret it. Since we are in the “Information Age,” those who can organize, locate, access, store, and research information are in demand. The jobs are waiting for qualified professionals.

RE jobs

1. Please make certain that you have joined this listserv: slisinfo@listserv.sc.edu. Information goes out frequently re job opportunities.

2. Use the Site Index at http://www.libsci.sc.edu/ and click on J. There you will find a hot link to Job Listings. When you click there, the categories are by states as well as Websites for the School of Library & Information Science and SLISJOBS . You can join a listserv specifically designed for LIS with areas covered, such as
SLIS Placement Information
Career/Job Web Sites
Job Listings
USC Career Center
Interview Questions
Jobs Mailing List
What can I do?? - Where can I work??

E-portfolios

"At the heart of the portfolio as we envision it are samples of ---performance, not just what (persons) say about their practice but artifacts and examples of what they actually do." Edgerton, Hutchings and Quinlan, 1992)

Since e-portfolios are used as exit demonstration of academic proficiency in the MLIS program, the e-portfolio workshop is one of four cohort onsites that all members must attend. This spring, there will be two for cohort members: (1) at Marshall University's Charleston Campus, 100 Angus E. Peyton Drive (exit 55, I - 64) and (2) at Waynesboro High School, 1200 West Main Street, Waynesboro, VA 22980.

The meetings will run from 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM with lunch provided.

Persons in WV and VA interested in beginning the MLIS online program might wish to observe part of the day, meet students in the program, and speak with faculty or staff.

Still accepting cohort members

The University of South Carolina's School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) began the WVVA Cohort for fall '07. Because of continued interest, more persons entered the cohort for both spring '08 and summer session I '08.

Now we are preparing persons for admission who would like to enter for fall '08. There are some guidelines you must keep in mind and follow in order to receive your acceptance letter in time to participate:

1. May 1, 2008 = completion date for admissions packet. Show any related experience you may have had.

2. An online application is available. Send your $40 online application fee at that time.

3. The Graduate School will prepare a folder to hold your information as it arrives: transcripts, either GRE or MAT score, 2 letters of recommendation, and a 5-paragraph personal statement.

Contact me with questions of interest:
Dr. Virginia Wallace
864-850-9128
wallybug@bellsouth.net

Get in the race for one of the best experiences of your life! Take all of your classes online and yet have close contact with your instructors and develop a network among the members of the cohort.

The clock is ticking!

February has arrived! If you are seeking admission to the SLIS MLIS program for Summer Session I, all of your materials should be in the Graduate School by February 15. Please notify me (wallybug@bellsouth.net) if you are trying to get all of your materials in but are facing a glitch

The materials needed for admissions are as follows: (1) $40 online application fee (2) online application (3) personal statement (5 parts) (4) college/university transcripts (5) 2 letters of recommendation (6) GRE or MAT scores.

Once you are accepted, you will have time to search for monies: financial aid and/or scholarships. Classes for Summer Session 1 begin June 1.

The onsite orientation date is Saturday, April 12 in Waynesboro, VA at Waynesboro High School from 10:00 - 4:30. There are only 4 face-to-face times throughout the entire program: orientation, e-portfolio workshop, internship information, and a graduation ceremony at the VA State Library.

CONSIDERING AN MLIS?

The University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Studies has a nationally ranked ALA-approved Masters that is offered using blended technologies. For persons in West Virginia and Virginia, a cohort began fall 07 with 55 students and 12 to be added for spring 08.

It is still possible to join that cohort by completing the application packet for Summer Session I or Fall 08 admission. See below for date deadlines.

If you are not in WV or VA but are interested in the USC MLIS, go to http://www.libsci.sc.edu/ and click on For Future Students. Contact me anytime: vwallace@gwm.sc.edu or wallybug@bellsouth.net.

Spring 08, Summer Session I, Fall 08

I thought I would itemize some info here. Some of you already know these things but it does not hurt to hear again.
1. The onsite orientation for WV and VA students who plan to begin classes in Spring 08 will be held in Waynesboro, VA at Waynesboro High School on Saturday, January 12 from 10 AM to 4:30 PM.
2. If anyone wishes to drive in the evening before and stay all night, I recommend the Best Western right off I-64 in Waynesboro. It is brand new.
3. If you do stay all night on Friday, let me know and all or any of us can get together and I (SLIS) will spring for pizza. :)
4. This orientation is mandatory and very important. You will hear so much about d.e. and cohorts and USC's digital programs for students and the library (Thomas Cooper aka TCL), etc.
5. By starting in Spring 08, you will actually have two onsites in one semester because there will be an e-portfolio learning session on April 5 in Charleston, WV on the Marshall Campus there and on April 12 in Waynesboro at the high school again. You may choose either the 5th or 12th depending on your personal need and wish.

6. For those who do not make the spring 08 start but plan to begin Summer Session I or Fall 08, there will be orientation onsites for you also. I am thinking that we can have the SS I onsite on April 12 in Waynesboro while others are conducting the e-portfolio workshop in another part of Waynesboro High School. Since I must consider the number of trips for faculty and staff, that would make sense. Thus, you would be ready to begin SS I classes on June 2.

Make certain to complete your application packet and everything in by February 15 in order to have adequate time for your materials to go through the Graduate School.

7. For those who wish to begin Fall 08, your onsite orientation has been scheduled for June 14 in order to be ready for August 21 starting date. It will be held at Waynesboro High School in Waynesboro, VA.

Please have your application packet completed by May 1. That will give adequate time for the materials to reach the Graduate School for admission consideration.

8. SS I and Fall 08 admittees will need the onsite e-portfolio workshop and that probably will be early in 2009 (have to consider the weather) about March. Thank goodness, I do not have to make that decision today!

Latest info for joining the WVVA Cohort

When I attended both VEMA and VLA and Nonie Price attended WVLA, we talked with many persons interested in our online Masters program. We are able to offer in-state tuition + fee because there is no ALA-approved Masters in either state.

Please read through the various blog posts to get a more complete understanding of what we have to offer.

If you are looking for a Masters of Library and Information Science program and do not want to leave your home state, SLIS (School of Library and Information Science at USC) might be just the place you want to be!

Although the cohort began fall '07, it is still possible to become part of the program. For Spring '08, all admissions materials would need to be in by December 1 and that might be a stretch for many. Therefore, if serious about a program but cannot meet that deadline, begin the admissions process and have everything completed for a Summer Session I entry or Fall '08 entry.

Contact me and I will help in whatever way I can. Below I have given a campus email and here I will post an additional email address that you might use: wallybug@bellsouth.net

For Updates

Welcome to the space where, I hope, we will be able to share our questions/answers, thoughts and ideas about the WVVA online program that began fall 2007. It is still possible to join this cohort if you live in WV or VA and it is possible to receive instate tuition plus a distance learning handling fee.
To get in touch with me concerning the program, email me at vwallace@gwm.sc.edu.
In order to receive the latest information, subscribe to my listserv. I will send out updated information frequently, especially as I attend conferences and learn what your specific needs and questions are.
(1) For the To line, type LISTSERV@LISTSERV.SC.EDU (2) Leave the Subject line blank (3) In the body, type SUBSCRIBE COHORT2008 yourfirstname yourlastname.

Upcoming Conferences

I will attend the VEMA conference October 11 - 13 and the VLA conference November 1 - 2. If you are interested in our online MLIS cohort program, please see me at the USC - SLIS booth in the exhibit hall.

This Masters for VA residents will allow you to receive in-state tuition. In order to begin Spring '08, you would need to complete your admissions packet by December 1.

It is important to get in touch with me now or certainly, to see me at one of the conferences.

Being part of the WVVA Cohort MLIS program is possible but we need to get you started now on the application process.

Admission to the Cohort Continues!

West Virginia and Virginia librarians and those interested in librarianship should consider the University of South Carolina School of Library and Information Science MLIS program. Additional students can enter the online cohort that began this fall. The cohort offers in-state tuition, all courses via digital technologies, no campus visits, 4 onsites in your state during the entire program (and one of those is a graduation ceremony that we bring to you!), and opportunities for networking and developing peer support.

If this is what you have been looking for, try 5 things:

1. Go to http://www.libsci.sc.edu/. That is our school's webpage where you will click on For Future Students to find information about the school, the program, and the admissions procedure.

2. Join the listserv for those who want to begin classes January 2008. Periodically, I will send out updated information. Additionally, it is a place where you can communicate among yourselves: COHORT2008@LISTSERV.SC.EDU.

3. Continue to visit this blog. I will continue to post.

4. Email me with your questions: wallybug@bellsouth.net or vwallace@sc.edu.

5. Call me at 803-777-8894. If I am not in my office, leave a number where I can reach you.

IMPORTANT DEADLINE INFORMATION: You must complete the admissions packet by December 1. Now is the time to start. You can complete the application online. I recommend that you send the online registration fee when you complete your entry. The Graduate School will set up a file in your name and as pieces of the admissions packet arrive, they will go into your personal file.

August and Time to Begin Classes!

The WVVA Cohort has been formed and it is 60 strong! The WV orientation will be held in Charleston, WV on the Marshall University-Charleston Campus on Saturday, August 11, from 9:30 - 4:30. The VA orientation will be in Waynesboro at Waynesboro High School on Monday, August 13, from 9:30 - 4:30.

It is an exciting time! Our cohort students will complete the program of study completely online. Blended technologies to be used, at this time, include Blackboard, DVD's, streaming video, audio conferencing, Breeze Presentation, Breeze Live, Camtasia, CD's, web-based resources, and of course, print. Sometimes we tend to forget that print has been and still is a major technology in our lives!

If interested in an online Masters of Library and Information Science, contact me. The information is in an earlier archived post. Additionally, you could comment at this site and I will get back with you.

Latest developments

The Fourth of July represents the halfway point of summer. In a little over 5 weeks, we will have our first orientation onsite for the WVVA Cohort that begins on August 23.

If there are those interested in the cohort but have not begun the application process, please contact me ASAP! wallybug@bellsouth.net. All things are possible if you are truly interested in the Masters commitment.

The Cohort is shaping up beautifully. It looks as though the network of West Virginians and Virginians will be 55+ in number! Once you graduate from the program, you will carry with you many lasting friendships and good professional contacts made over the next several years.

Admissions Packets

Today is the last day of May. Some are worried because all items of their admissions packet have not arrived. Do not worry! June 1 is a Graduate Studies deadline but we have known that our admissions would continue beyond that date.

It is important to keep pushing ahead, however, because the Admissions Committee meets the end of June and if there are packets that need the attention of the committee, we want to be able to present them then.

I got my printout yesterday and am amazed how many of you are diligently at work with your admissions. Besides the incomplete packages, we have 30 who have been admitted and 5 pending.

A great cohort is shaping up! It will not be too long until I can send out the particulars concerning the orientation onsites. For those in WV, keep the dates August 10 and 11. The 10th will be an evening get-together for those who wish to travel in early. The 11th will be the day-long orientation. For those in VA, keep the dates August 12 and 13. The 12th will be the evening social for those who wish to come in early and stay over. The 13th (Monday) will be the day-long orientation.

An orientation is mandatory. Please make plans for one or the other. The WV site will be the Charleston Campus of Marshall University. The VA site will be the Charlottesville area (not Charlotteville proper but close -within 20 - 30 minutes). I will give you all of the details once we have the finalized list of cohort participants.

I am excited! How about you?

Update re deadlines and fall start

I thought that I should touch base since we are fast approaching May and June follows quickly on its heels!

Quite a few of you have been accepted into the program; even more of you have your admissions packet near completion with Graduate Studies and SLIS Student Services; and a few of you are gathering all of the parts to submit at once.

Once again, my recommendation is to begin giving the materials to Graduate Studies and SLIS Student Services. There is a process that the application must go through and it is slow this time of year because USC is a big university with many graduate programs and many applicants.

As we look beyond June to August, two big events occur: (1) onsite orientation and (2) classes begin. Pretty exciting! Lots of anticipation!

At a recent faculty meeting, the Orientation Committee gave a report. The effort is to have the same type of orientation for all sites whether at a distance or on campus. We believe that networking and socializing and collaborating are important parts of the program. We believe that it is important for you to meet us, for us to meet you, and for you to meet you. Orientation will cover a multitude of areas important for your comfort level.

I look forward to the time with you and will be in touch as times and locations are finalized. I've got some alums out there helping. Because of their positive experiences in the program, they willingly "step up tothe plate," when asked.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

One of the SLIS faculty members compiled the following information. I think all of you will find it helpful. Good reading! I know that some of the funds are for SC students entering school library; however, I thought if you read about these, you might check in WV and VA to see if similar programs are available for our "critical need" area of school librarianship.

Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial aid is available for SLIS students. All students applying to the program and all students currently enrolled at SLIS should be aware of the different loans and scholarships, application forms, and due dates
The USC Office of Student Financial Aid & Scholarship office:
http://www.sc.edu/financialaid/

Scholarships from the School of Library and Information Science.
http://www.libsci.sc.edu/program/scholarships.htm

Federal Stafford loans. Qualified individuals may apply for low interest loans (http://www.sc.edu/financialaid/applyforstaf.html).

Any SLIS student who holds a valid SC teaching license is eligible to apply for a discounted tuition at USC. Students who have a current SC teaching certificate should contact the Office of the Bursar (http://www.sc.edu/bursar/).

Financial aid for South Carolina residents who are SLIS students pursuing certification in K-12 school library media.

The USC Office of Student Financial Aid & Scholarship office:
http://www.sc.edu/financialaid/applyforteachers.html

Since school library media is listed as one of the critical needs areas in South Carolina (http://www.scstudentloan.org/wp280-03.aspx), SC residents working toward certification in K-12 school library media may be eligible for two types of forgivable loans: either the South Carolina Teachers Loan Program or the Career Changers Loan Program. Due to limited funding, meeting all criteria and deadlines does not guarantee that individuals will be accepted into these loan programs. Applications are available online (http://www.scstudentloan.org/wp154-01.aspx). Students must apply each year as loans are granted on an annual basis. Applications are available each March. Early submission is strongly recommended. June 1st is the deadline each year.

The SC Teachers Loan Program allows students to borrow up to $5,000 a year with an aggregate amount of $20,000.

The Career Changers Loan Program allows students to borrow up to $15,000 per year up to an aggregate maximum of $60,000 to complete their degrees.

The SC Teachers Loan Program and the Career Changers Loan Program are cancelled at the rate of 20% or $3,000, whichever is greater, for each full year of employment as a media specialist in a K-12 public school in South Carolina. If an individual is hired as a media specialist in a critical geographic area, the loan will be cancelled at the rate of 33% or $5,000, whichever is greater, for each year of full time employment. This means that most loans are usually "forgiven" in 3-5 years.

The South Carolina Teachers Loan Program and the Career Changers Loan Program are not the best loan programs for some individuals.
1.) Students must be enrolled for what qualifies as at least a half-time basis. Six graduate hours in the fall and spring might be too many hours for a student working full-time with family responsibilities.
2.) The loans usually do not cover courses in the summer.
3.) If a student doesn't become certified as a school librarian or fails to secure a position as a media specialist in SC and fulfill his/her obligation to work as a media specialist for the required number of years in SC, the loan must be repaid with accrued interest. The interest rate is set as the current rate on the Federal Stafford Loan plus 2% (currently 8.8%).

SC residents seeking certification in K-12 school library media should join the South Carolina Association of School Librarians as soon as they enroll at SLIS (http://www.scasl.net/joinus.htm). As a member of SCASL, SLIS students may apply for the Nancy Jane Day Scholarship (http://www.scasl.net/profawards/njdapp.htm).

Looking toward fall 2007

The WVVA Masters Online Cohort is moving forward wonderfully! Not only is it a "go" but a "go" with some great candidates who have submitted their applications to be part of the program.

Each week I get an update about applications and each week the list gets longer. It is not too late! We would love to have you in the cohort if you live in VA or WV. The application process takes about a month to put together. Give yourself enough time in order to receive your admittance by July.

The fall 2007 semester begins August 23 and we will have onsite orientations in VA and WV during the week of August 13.

Remember: (1) There is no ALA-approved Master of Library and Information Science in VA or WV. Because of that, USC-SLIS is able to offer in-state tuition. (2) The program is designed as a 4 year program but you may accelerate that time. (3) All of the courses will be offered online. (4) Four onsites are planned: orientation, e-portfolios, internships, and graduation. SLIS will come to you - WV and VA.

If you have been thinking about beginning a Masters program, this might be just what you need and have been looking for.

Scholarship Site

Monster.com owns this site. I do not know if the college scholarships are for graduate students because I did not create a free account. Since it is free, it would not hurt to take a look if you are interested. http://fastweb.com/

Monies available and online GRE practice

The link that I am providing has sample GRE questions that might help as you review for the test. http://education.yahoo.com/

If you work in a public library, you may want to share this information with the administration.
Grow Your Own @ Your Library Institutional Scholarship --PLA will provide nine public libraries with a lump sum of $8,000 each to be distributed to as many of their employees as they choose for the purpose of working toward obtaining an MLS-- $6,500 is to be used directly for payment of tuition at an ALA-accredited library school; $1,500 is to be used to support attendance for one or more of the selected scholarship recipients to attend a PLA-sponsored CE conference such as the 2008 PLA National Conference. http://www.pla.org/ala/pla/plaawards/growyourown.htm

Northern Virginia trip

Dr. Samantha Hastings and I made the trip to Northern Virginia January 31 - February 2. I kept positive thoughts about traveling and snow but we actually flew between snows. On the return, when I flew into Charlotte, NC, there was snow around and I was told plenty of ice and sleet earlier.

The meetings with prospective cohort participants were fun. It was rewarding to see so many persons eager to take the professional challenge and commitment required to get an MLIS.

As all of you know, classes will begin fall 2007 and that means the first sessions will be toward the end of August. There will be an orientation in VA also. We (USC SLIS) will travel to you.

Since some of the contact information is now way down the blog postings, I want to remind you of the SLIS webpage: www.libsci.sc.edu. Look under For Future Students. Note the contacts in Student Services. As you are preparing your admissions packet, you may wish to speak with someone in that office.

If you haven't joined the listserv, I encourage you to do so. I have given the steps further down in the blog.

I would like to hear from you. Usually a question you have is one someone else has. What helps one helps all. :)

Example of Scholarship Possibilities

As you continue to prepare your admissions material, I will continue to post information that I hope will be of benefit and will continue to encourage you as you make the MLIS commitment.

For full-time students pursuing school media certification, please note the following opportunity.AASL School Librarian's Workshop Scholarship. The scholarship is awarded to a full-time student preparing to become a school library media specialist at the preschool, elementary, or secondary level. The recipient must pursue graduate level education in an ALA-accredited library school program or in a school library media program that meets the ALA curriculum guidelines for the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). The $3,000 scholarship is donated by Jay W. Toor, president, Library Learning Resources. For information on how to apply, go to http://www.ala.org/ala/aasl/aaslawards/schoollibrarians/aaslschoollibrarians.htm

Admission Requirements

I am posting this information found on a SLIS webpage because I want all of you to see that the admission process is possible for you! Soon Christmas will be here and postings will cease for a time but I wanted to get this one up so you all could begin thinking about the process and about a plan to meet the deadline. For the June 1 deadline, think April! :)

Admissions Requirements for the MLIS Program include the following:

1. A completed USC Graduate School Admissions Information Form and a non-refundable $40.00 application fee. This application may be completed by paper or electronically.

Go to the home page of the Graduate School and click on "Apply Now" or go directly to the Application.

2. An official transcript showing possession of a baccalaureate degree from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting agency. The undergraduate record should show promise for graduate study with a GPA of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in the last two years or 60 semester hours of the applicant's undergraduate degree.

3. Official transcripts from all other colleges or universities attended.

4. Two letters of reference from persons who can comment directly on the applicant's professional and academic capabilities and potential. For example, college instructors could comment on an applicant's previous academic performance in relation to potential for graduate study; a supervisor/administrator could address job performance and potential for advancement. Letters which speak only of the applicant's personal attributes will not be accepted. Letters from friends and relatives are not acceptable.

5. The School of Library and Information Science requires one of the following:a. Official score reports for tests taken October 2002 or later showing at least 950 on the combined verbal and quantitative portions of the GRE with a minimum score of at least 500 on the verbal portion. b. Official score reports for tests taken prior to October 2002 showing at least 950 on the combined verbal and quantitative or verbal and analytical (whichever is higher) portions of the GRE. c. Official score reports for tests taken October 2004 or later showing at least 410 on the Miller Analogies Test.d. Official score reports for tests taken prior to October 2004 showing 50 or better on the Miller Analogies Test.e. (International students whose native language is not English must also submit an official report showing a minimum score of 570 [230 computer-based total] on the TOEFL exam.)

6. The School of Library and Information Science Supplemental Information Form, which includes a statement of purpose. Download the Supplemental Information Form which is completed along with the Graduate School electronic application. When you write your statement of purpose, please, please include all of the required parts! Dr. Wallace

http://www.libsci.sc.edu/program/degrees.htm#mlisadmit

GRE

http://www.testprepreview.com/gre_practice.htm
http://www.syvum.com/gre/
http://www.wtamu.edu/academic/anns/mps/math/mathlab/gre/index.htm

These three websites for GRE review were shared via the listserv and I thought it would be good to have them here also.

It is always important to do one's best; however, the application has a number of parts for consideration of acceptance into the program. Don't stress over this one part; make each part the best expression of who you are, e.g. letters of recommendation, your professional/work experience, and your personal statement.

I was told by Student Services that applications have begun to arrive. There is no numerical cutoff so don't worry. I mention it only because it is exciting to me to see the cohort begin to take shape. The important cutoff is June 1 by which time all persons will have received their acceptance letters! :)

International Possibilities

Maybe working within an international library appeals to you. There are more international contacts than will be mentioned here. However, to name 3, there are the International Association of School Librarians (IASL), the International Association of Music Libraries (IAML), and the International Association of Law Libraries (IALL).

Maybe one of these is the type of work you have been dreaming about and your Masters could make those dreams come true. :-)

Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies

Once you begin your MLIS, you will want to take advantage of the student membership to ALA. Within ALA are a number of divisions. Exploring them will help you to understand the diversity of the library profession.

Here is a blurb about the Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies:
"The Association of Specialized and Cooperative Library Agencies (ASCLA) enhances the effectiveness of library service by providing networking, enrichment and educational opportunities for its diverse members, who represent state library agencies, libraries serving special populations, multitype library organizations and independent librarians."

"Independent librarians are library service providers who work outside of traditional library settings."

Sounds interesting and may be just what you are looking for!

Scholarships

As I find or think of possible sources for scholarships, awards, or graduate study aid, I will post the links on this blog. (If you find some or something that you feel others hoping to begin the cohort in the fall would benefit from, please use this blog for posting. Let's get some interaction and conversation going.)
1. http://mlanet.org/awards/grants/ "MLA (Medical Library Association) offers a variety of scholarships and grants to assist qualified students in graduate library science programs and to enable practicing health sciences librarians to take advantage of opportunities for continuing professional development. "
2. http://www.gmsp.org/(pmnwfpimlslp3iryxqgl3145)/default.aspx Gates Millennium Scholarships
3. http://www.ala.org/ Click on Awards and Scholarships.

Career Potential and Opportunities

One of the professors at USC SLIS made a good point about exploring different opportunities as you work through the Masters program because through exploration, you see the variety of possibilities available once you earn your MLIS. That means that often what was thought to be a professional goal is supplanted by a new direction within the library and information science field.

Here are websites for such exploration and browsing.
1. ASIS&T (American Society for Information Science and Technology)
"The Information Society for the Information Age"
On the Task Bar, click "Careers."
Click "Jobline."
Click "View Jobs" "Access the newest and freshest jobs available to professionals seeking employment."
Notice the variety of positions!
http://asist.org/

2. SLA (Special Libraries Association)
"Connecting Peoople and Information"
On the Task Bar, click "Careers." There are 5 choices: Job Seekers, Articles and Resources, Virtual Advisor, Career Connections, and Career Disruption.
Also try "Inside SLA" for an explanation of the Information Professional's roles and responsibilities.
http://www.sla.org/

3. ALA (American Library Association)
http://www.ala.org/ala/education/educationcareers.htm
Some areas covered are Careers in Library, Recruitment, Library Employment Resources, Employment Opportunities.

4. AASL (American Association of School Libraries)
http://www.ala.org/ala/aasl/aaslindex.htm
Under Education and Careers, some of the areas covered are Professional Learning Communities, School Library Media Education Programs, Recruitment to School Librarianship.

Academic Libraries

Since everyone entering the program for the MLIS will be looking at different kinds of jobs within the profession, I thought I would share from time to time information concerning various possibilities. The first is some information from the National Center for Education Statistics about Academic Libraries in 2004.
"NCES has just released, 'Academic Libraries: 2004.' The selected findings and tables in this report, based on the 2004 Academic Libraries Survey, summarize services, staff, collections, and expenditures of academic libraries in degree-granting postsecondary institutions in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The report includes a number of keyfindings: During fiscal year (FY) 2004, there were 155.1 million circulation transactions from academic libraries' general collection.During a typical week in the fall of 2004, 1.4 million academic library reference transactions were conducted, including computer searches. The nation's 3,700 academic libraries held 982.6 million books; serial backfiles; and other paper materials, including government documents at the end of FY 2004. Academic libraries spent $2.2 billion on information resources during FY 2004."
http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2007301

http://www.ala.org/ala/acrl/acrlpubs/crlnews/backissues1997/november6/careerdevelopment.htm
This URL is to ACRL (Association of Colleges and Research Libraries). It contains the following article: "Career Development," C&RL News, November 1997Vol. 58 No. 10by Cynthia Coccaro. Areas covered are General career guidance, Internship and summer employment, Occupational information, Company information, Electronic journals, and Relocation and salaries.

VLA (Virginia Library Association) Conference

VLA (Virginia Library Association) Conference was wonderful! I had so much interest in the MLIS online cohort for fall 2007. I was busy constantly and one of the fun things that happened is that some of the graduates from the first Virginia cohort stopped by at the same time. It was like having a group of cheerleaders. They had such enthusiasm and positive things to say about the program. I should have thought ahead to have some graduates spend time in the booth with me; they are wonderful sales persons.

Each time I attend a conference, I am reminded how needed this Masters program is in West Virginia and Virginia. Without an ALA-approved program in either state, the fact that USC SLIS can offer the Masters online is a tremendous boon for the job pool in both states. Especially in Virginia, there is a shortage of ALA-approved Masters candidates for jobs within the profession. Thus, public library systems and school systems have decided to grow their own.

It is timely that SLIS can begin class offerings in fall 2007 and that so many of you are ready and eager to enter the program.

The listserv is growing. If you have not subscribed, please do so! You will receive frequent updates from me. I can send one message and reach all of you.

School Library Journal Summit

I have just returned from Chicago where I attended a wonderful "think tank" meeting! We were divided into 3 groups to explore the present and the future of the targeted topics: (1) school library media centers as they are and where they are going (2) libraries and literacy and (3) School Library 2.0 (SL2.0).

It was enlightening to see the overriding message from all three groups: the school library and librarian are indispensible in curriculum development and therefore, must learn to incorporate 21st century technology tools into the vision and objectives of the profession.

I believe that the listserv messages I have sent recently have not been received. I have had massive computer problems with my operating system and hard drive. Tomorrow I hope to get the problems corrected!

I leave Wednesday for the VLA Conference in Williamsburg. I hope to meet with several of you at that time. Please stay tuned to WVVA online (this blog) for further updates and info re the fall 2007 online cohort.

VEMA

I had a wonderful time at the Virginia Educational Media Association Conference held at the new Hampton Convention Center! I made many contacts and was able to distribute 100 bi-fold brochures that tell about the new fall 2007 online cohort.

Not only were there many, many interested visitors to our USC SLIS booth in the exhibit hall but also several district library coordinators and directors want to share the program with their employees.

I leave Wednesday for Chicago and the School Library Journal Summit where I will be until the weekend. Next week I will travel to VLA and hope to meet some of you in person at that time.

West Virginia Library Association

I attended the West Virginia Library Association Conference, held in Huntington, West Virginia and met many, many nice people and active librarians.

As a result, I have some names that will be coming on board through the listserv. I encourage you to join the listserv if you have not done so.

I will be leaving for VEMA on October 25 and hope to find more prospects for our upcoming WVVA Online Cohort.

USC School of Library and Information Science

When you go to the SLIS webpage at http://www.libsci.sc.edu/, look under "For Future Students." There is information about Admissions, Course Selection, etc.