Carrie Solinger
MS in Library and Information Science ‘09
CAS in Digital Libraries ‘09
San Francisco, CA

I earned my undergraduate degrees in Broadcast Journalism and History from my dream college, Syracuse University. Although some people advise against doing graduate study at the same university you received your Bachelors, thankfully, that old wives tale was put to rest, and I took advantage of Syracuse’s challenging curriculum, renowned professorship, and stellar reputation.

Through Syracuse’s distance learning option, I was provided the rare opportunity of obtaining both my Master of Library and Information Science degree and Certificate of Advanced Studies in Digital Libraries within a year while working full-time and living across the country in San Francisco, CA. The curriculum was challenging, and during crunch time, I sometimes wanted to pull out my hair. Fortunately, I had the support and encouragement of the faculty, staff, and peers to give me confidence and keep me focused.

Attending the Helen Benning Regnier Summer Institute, lovingly referred to as Boot Camp, and living on campus for my first two graduate classes, brought back fresh memories of undergrad life. I relived 8:00 a.m. caffeine fixes, group projects, and late night gossip sessions. I loved it all, and was pleased to end my time on campus with two really good friends (between the three of us, we either IM, text, or talk almost daily). I was also impressed with the faculty’s friendliness, flexibility, and real concern for my progress throughout the program. All of this, enhanced by online communications, allowed me to feel connected to my cohort and instructors despite the 3,000-mile distance and three-hour time difference.

I am still pursuing job opportunities in the Bay Area, and hope to be placed in a rewarding library position soon. I love a good chat and invite alumni, current, and prospective students to contact me to talk about Syracuse life, curriculum, or any other related questions. I may be reached at solinger.carrie@gmail.com.