“Some of my earliest memories [are of] reading books [at our local library] waiting for my brother to get off work. Then we’d walk home together. I’m grateful for the impact my brother’s job had [on my career trajectory].” – Shanice Watkins, MMLIS ‘26
Shanice Watkins grew up visiting her local library in Compton, CA, after school, where her brother worked as a library page. Her mother, an avid reader who Watkins fondly remembers “always had a book in her hands,” passed on that passion for literature and information to her children, and that lifelong love of books inspired Watkins’ to return to school for her Master of Management in Library and Information Science.
Watkins currently works in the nonprofit sector and was looking to make a career change where she could serve others and make knowledge more accessible for folks in her community. “I come from a historically marginalized community and what I’ve learned is we don’t know what we don’t know and [often] what’s needed [to bridge that gap] is open access…[libraries] have so many resources available for people,” Watkins said.
A Multi-faceted Program Designed for Future Leaders
Watkins was drawn to USC Bovard College’s MMLIS because of the opportunity to not only delve into the world of library and information sciences, but also develop her leadership and management skills in an ALA-accredited program. “The program is unique [because it] equips us to be leaders in the library and information science fields,” she said.
Of her time in the program, Watkins shared that “there are many opportunities [in] small break out [sessions] to build rapport and make connections” with her fellow students. Group chats and accountability partners have also helped her feel enmeshed in the Trojan community. For Watkins, though, her professors are the real standout of the online experience. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed learning from my professors”, she said. “Hearing their real-life experiences” helped her discover the many professional pathways open to her with the MMLIS degree. She also deeply appreciated that the professors are very hands-on and accessible, making themselves available for questions outside of classroom sessions.
Watkins has “learned so much from the readings and the classroom discussions” already, but the program’s dedication to “shaping us as leaders” stood out to her the most. She shared, “Being an effective leader comes with emotional intelligence and [understanding] different leadership styles,” and the attention to her leadership development has been “exceptional”.
For those considering applying to the program, Watkins has a few words of advice. “You’re going to learn so much and [it’s all so] insightful. Calendaring and time management have been two key elements in ensuring I stay on track… [and] have time in my life” to focus on school.
When asked about her plans after graduation, Watkins replied, “I have so many interests now that I’ve learned what’s possible”, she said. “This program has exposed me to so many different professional careers,” and she’s excited to explore “different pathways, what’s possible with [changes in] technology, and how we can use it to help others.” She’s most interested in archival management because “the process of preserving records…is so fascinating and an art that we should keep alive.” Watkins is curious about how technology and the art of preserving physical media and records can work together.
Watkins is a proud member of the Trojan Family. She said, “There isn’t another program I’d want to learn and grow from. [With this program’s] emphasis on leadership…I know I made the right choice [attending] USC.”
Learn more about the Master of Management in Library & Information Science program.