The student assistants of the Horace W. Sturgis Library on Kennesaw State’s main campus are busy making the new semester rush less hectic by handling the little things for students.
A new semester brings a litany of responsibilities, coursework and studying for students. A common epicenter of bustle is the Sturgis Library, located at the center of the Kennesaw campus.
With so many students in one building, the atmosphere can become hectic. Fortunately, there are over 20 student assistants whose goal is to simplify the process of obtaining course material.
Veteran student assistant and senior finance major Kyle Bowen shared the significance of his position in the important role it plays. He described the tasks as simple, with assistants signing out laptops, unlocking study rooms, checking out books and more.
“It’s pretty basic stuff, but if it’s busy, you’re helping people out,” Bowen said.
With KSU experiencing one of these busy times at the moment as students rush to decide what books are needed, helping students through the pandemonium that can ensue is important.
Bowen expressed how available the student assistants at the front desk are to help during this time of so many trying to figure out so much.
“I could see how someone can feel intimidated,” Bowen said. “Sometimes people are apologizing for making me do stuff but it’s really no big deal. Most of the time I’m sitting at the computer, so when people come up it gives you something to do.”
If a student is unable to locate an assistant, they can take advantage of a 24-hour chat reference. This person-to-person chat reference offers a live chat with someone who can answer almost any question a student may have.
The Sturgis Library is designed so that student assistants are able to help out with everyday operations with the student body. Librarians located in offices on the third floor can do this too but are typically busy conducting and assisting in research. With just a few librarians on the ground floor Monday through Friday, students are more likely to encounter a student assistant.
Bowen said working with and amid so many other assistants his age has affected him positively.
“I don’t want to use the term ‘family’ but we’re all helping each other out — it’s like an understanding,” Bowen said. “There’s no super pressure. Just come in and do your thing.”
KSU students can rest assured knowing that Bowen and the other members of his team are here to help.
