Jennifer Schmidley, Library Assistant II, Henderson Campus

We extend a warm welcome to new Henderson Campus Library Assistant II, Jennifer Schmidley. Jennifer began working in the campus library several semesters ago as a student worker, learning our library systems, services and collections, and gaining experience in library operations. She is now putting that experience and expertise to work in her new full-time position helping our students borrow books, reserve textbooks and media, navigate our catalogs and databases, and also directing their questions and referrals to other campus resources. You’ll find Jennifer front and center at the Henderson Library Circulation Desk located in Building A.

Tell us something about yourself Jenn! Well, I’ve been in the Las Vegas area for the last 15 years, and before joining the library as a student worker, I worked in a variety of managerial positions in restaurants and retail. Although I wasn’t born here in the Valley, at this point I like to consider myself a real desert rat. My enjoyment of the outdoors has motivated me to pursue an Associate of Science degree here at CSN, and I’m looking forward to a career in environmental sciences.

What do you like best about your new job? For me, working with our Henderson students, faculty and staff–and then beyond with members of the larger Henderson community–is very fulfilling. Because I actually live and work in Henderson, I get a sense of fulfillment that comes with directly assisting community members in accessing resources that further their abilities and opportunities. I’m impacting my community.

You are both a hardworking CSN student and an employee. Do you have any words of wisdom for students wanting to follow in your footsteps? I’d say don’t be shy. Whether it’s academics or career prep, just ask for direction. No matter where you are on your path at CSN, the faculty and staff are always there to help you get to the next step, whatever you decide that may be.