When she said it was "lonely" work I was like. YES. That is for ME. Place me in an archive and let me get old with the books, alone, and I will be happy there until the day I die.

@mickmartin4681

Жыл бұрын

But then in your new video you said you need two jobs just to get by. That's messed up...

@unsociety4625

Жыл бұрын

yes!!as an introvert, this might be my dream job!

@ladylefteye

9 ай бұрын

This is the career for me. I love books, history, reading etc. I'm also an introvert.

@windseathunder

2 ай бұрын

Ahhhh a fellow introvert seeking a nerdy career that allows for the solitude and quiet we need to thrive 🙏 best wishes on your journey

Thanks so much for the Q&A! At 29, I’m thinking of switching careers from customer service/retail to archiving but have been feeling overwhelmed with the decision to go back to school and the potential time/money I could be wasting. This was refreshing to see and think about.

@anissalashae

2 жыл бұрын

I am 25 and I was working customers service since 18, graduated and couldn’t get a job in my field and I’m back in school now! I have transitioned into an intake position but I am definitely interested in archives. Good luck and happy holidays!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

totally understand the stress of going back to school! glad this video could help you gain some clarity :)

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

best of luck to you!

@RockDove5212

2 жыл бұрын

Me too. Did you do it?

@oliviawilson2201

2 жыл бұрын

I’m in the exact same situation! Watching this it seems like a great fit though

As someone who also has a MA in history, and works as an oral historian/archivist for a historical society, I think you SHOULD feel qualified to give advice! You have been doing this for years!! I have imposter syndrome too, though. 😅 You really have great content, and I am sure you help a lot of people who are at the start of their career!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the encouragement!! It’s nice to hear from a fellow archivist ☺️

I love the archive representation, it always feels like all bookish job rep on youtube is only ever either publishing or bookselling. Happy to see your channel grow as well!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

YESSS! completely agree. so happy I can add some diversity to this little corner of the internet :) and thank you!!

I'm a prospective grad student deciding what concentration I should have for my library science degree and this is amazing 💖💖💖

Fabulous and informative video, anticipating many questions I wanted to ask myself! thank you so much for uploading.

I'm so glad I found your video - you answered questions I didn't even think to ask!

@SheilaJoy

10 ай бұрын

yay!! :)

Uhh wow okay this has really fueled my desire to be an archivist. I thrive in solitude and have an eye for detail; so this might be my true calling! I'm currently getting my general ed stuff done so that I can transfer to Uni, and finally jumpstart my long-awaited career! I have some background in Health Records; so I hope that will be somewhat beneficial for me in the long run! Awesome vid btw! You seem like a super chill person, and I kinda envy your day-to-day life haha. I'm sure there's plenty of chaos behind the scenes but by the looks of it, you seem to have things figured out, and to that I say kudos! Hope life's treating you well, and thank you for the quality content!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Sounds like you are on the right path!! Having a background in records management is very helpful! And thank you for the sweet comment. Life certainly has its ups and downs, but overall I try to live a peaceful life (very grateful to be able to!)

Great video! I’m about to graduate with my bachelor’s in history and hopefully going to start my MA next year. I’m leaning towards an archivist career and this video definitely gave some insight. Also I 100% understand how you feel as far as wanting to teach and share history without having to be a teacher.

So happy I found your channel! I’m in PA as well and is researching different MLIS programs. It was great to hear your perspective!

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

thank you for being here, fellow PA friend! :)

Hi, i am starting my M.L.I.S. this fall '23 and as like you have a B.A. in History. Your video here is a prime example of what guided me to this field as of a few years ago. i look forward to your other videos.

Yo, thank you so much for the video. I'm a history major rn and I enjoy the degree, but I've been really stressed out since I've been pressured to find a job with it soon once I graduate. Being an archivist has stood out to me, and after watching its given me an extra boost to maybe pursuing this in the future!!

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

the pressure and stress of landing a job right after graduation is real! I'm glad this video could help you in your journey...good luck!

thank you for this video!! currently looking at going back to college after my first try didn’t work out lol. was considering some other degrees but being an archivist and studying history sounds the most interesting and fulfilling to me. thanks for the info and for sharing your experience!!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

My first try (in art school) didn’t work either!! We will never know what will work without trying it out. If you’re able to volunteer at a historical society or archives before going all in I recommend that to see if it’s something you can see yourself doing!

This is soooo relaxing. ✨✨✨ What an awesome day in the life!

@SheilaJoy

4 ай бұрын

aw, thank you for being here! :)

Sheila, I am so amazed at how similar our stories are! I worked as a portrait photographer during and after high school. I started college and went through 4 majors before I found History and the joy it brings me. I am in a public history class right now and go to a very hands on University so we have done some trips to various archives this semester, and I actually had a huge find in an archive today which led me here to your video. Thank you so much for making this! :)

@SheilaJoy

7 ай бұрын

aww wow! that's so cool how we both share similar journeys, especially the photography stint :) good luck with the remaining semester/school year!

I just found your videos and I love them already! Thank you for being real. And I miss crunchy leaves underfoot.

this was very helpful, thank you sheila! i currently work part-time at a library as an assistant in the microforms department and am seriously thinking about going to grad school to get my mlis and become a digital archivist. i got my bachelor's last year and have been kind of lost since then as i haven't been able to get my foot in the door anywhere that interests me. but what i do enjoy is being at the library, and my favorite part of my job is when i just get to sit by myself and digitize some microfilm. i'm a very solitary person who prefers a quiet environment so this job honestly looks like a dream for me :)

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Glad this video was helpful to you!! I think becoming a digital archivist is a great direction to go in, plus you already have some experience in the field. I would also say digital archiving positions are becoming more in demand as our world becomes more dependent on technology.

Thank you so much for the q and a portion. I'm in my first year of my MLIS degree and currently taking an intro to archives course. Something about this career is just calling to me so intensely despite not having any experience or background in History other than a few history electives. I hope that my lack of experience doesn't hinder any progress but your video was very helpful!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

How exciting!! Having a history background def helps but I think knowing the archival theory + best practices side of things is more important since the job of archiving is about collections management more so than being knowledgeable about the material you’re working with.

Great video! I worked ten years in a public library, studying Bachelor in librarianship but considering switching it to Archives. Always had a love of history and am an introvert so feeling like it might be more for me.

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for stopping by! While working with books is more straight forward for me I do prefer working with archival records just because you never know what to expect (plus I love the history too hehe)

Thank you for this video. I am currently a sophomore in high school, and want to become an archivist for my career. Nice to know you’re own backstory, and advice on the topic.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!!

Thank you so much for the Q&A! I got my B.S. In Interdisciplinary Studies and now I’m going for my MLIS in January. I am a teacher currently but I’m ready to start working in the field or some sort of internship to gain experience.

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

how exciting and congratulations for starting your MLIS! wishing you good luck as you embark on your new path!

I've been subscribed to your channel for a bit now, and I really liked this video about your journey as an archivist. I finished my MLIS last year, and I just landed my first part-time library job. I also teach art history (I have an MA in art history as well) at a local community college. My long term goal is to work in the archival department of an art museum. I love that you also talked about de-colonization. I would love to see a video about this topic, particularly in relation to archival, history, museum, and library practice (I wrote several papers about this in library school, which was so interesting, and another way to tie the topic together with art history). It's been something I have been including in my art history courses, and as a white woman, I'm interested in hearing more from folks from other backgrounds. Keep the awesome videos coming!

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

Thank you for being here! Your work with art + libraries sounds awesome. I personally enjoy having different roles / tasks within my career to keep things interesting so it seems like you have something similar 😊 and love that you’ve written papers about decolonization! I’m still learning and unpacking it myself but would love to dive into the topic in the future

I'm on the Archivist track with a BA in Art History and studying for my Master's in Museum Studies. Thank you for all the great info!

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

thank you for being here! and amazing, best of luck with your studies!

I'm currently doing my master's in library and Information Science but did my bachelors on international Studies. I wasn't sure if I could go into the archivist career with my studies but now I feel much surer and more motivated. Great video

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

So happy to hear this! Best of luck ☺️

I relate so much with what you said! Just to give some context and tell my story, in the end of the 2nd year of my bachelor in Sociology, in a convo with a fellow college, I expressed that I felt I had chosen the wrong major and I lost the initial fascination I had with Sociology (due to several different reasons. This college just said that my personality, way of doing things and my keen taste for organisation, matched with a Librarian/ Archivist profile (she is a Librarian). So, I followed this lead that was implanted on me. I finished my bachelor (even though I was so done with it) and started to look for masters or 1-year post-grad degrees (I'm not sure this equals to what a post-grad is in the US) in LIS or Digital Libraries/ Archives (since I'm very interested in the digital transformation and transition). Unfortunately, where I live (Portugal) there aren't many options for further studies in this fields. The two masters I applied for I didn't get accepted. Long story short, I had a health issue I had to move back to my town and took a year off/ gap year of sorts. I found an international online programme in a field that I never heard about, "Digital Humanities". The master programme in DH, in this specific Uni., and that I miraculously got accepted, has a strong focus on Digitization of Cultural Heritage, Digital History, Digital Archaeology, Digital Archives and Digital Curation. I know that other paths in DH might have a stronger focus on data science or coding for the Humanities. I’ll start the master in less than a month and I’m much excited for the skills and knowledge that I’ll learn, and that will certainly allow me to work in a (Digital) Archive. However... this is a fairly new field (or better saying, the consolidated idea and the name "DH" is new, because since the 50's/60's there's been intersections between the Humanities and Technology) and I afraid that in a job interview situation I'll be passed over other candidates that have the traditional MLIS/ MARM. Or even that the employers (specially in unyielding State-owned Institutions, as you referred) will not credit my master as a possible degree for an Archivist... I'll take supplementing courses in ARM just in case, still I'm afraid I'll be an "impostor" compered to others that have the traditional degrees. I greatly agree with the idea that you shared about decolonising the field about the unfailingly necessity for a MLIS/ MARM. Not everyone has the chance, or the money, to take those masters. Of course, you can't be like "I have a master’s in biology and I want to work in Archive without taking any related education”. Though, humanities fields, experience and true will and passion for Archives should be as important as a MLIS. Thank you truly for your insights and knowledge in this debate and for sharing what an Archivist might do on a daily basis. And yes you have the authority to talk about these because you're an Archivist! :) Friendly regards from Portugal! (P.S.: Sorry in advanced for my English, any errors, and for mixing or use wrongly some terms.)

I'm soon going to be in my last year of high school and I'm still deciding on what I want to do, this video is really helpful!

@koya326

9 ай бұрын

Ok, I still have 2 years left, but I have no clue what I want to do, so same! Hope you figure it out

I'm currently taking my bachelor's degree in library science, and was feeling very demotivated these past few days, and found your channel. Just wanted to say thank you, your videos are very motivating

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

so happy to hear that!

Thanks for an informative video! I am applying for a master's program in Archival Science in Sweden. Many of the reasons why you started studying archives are the same as myself. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I'll get into the program. Thanks again

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

wishing you the best of luck!!

Hello. I commented on one of your postings about how I was doing my first ever internship. I have zero experience in archives, I'm nearing retirement age and I work full time as a corporate law librarian for 30 years. I was terrified. Well, I completed my internship requirements working at TWO sites. The first one, at a maritime college in the Bronx (NY), ended after a month because the archivist landed a better position (I agreed with her decision). I managed to secure another one, at a museum archives in NYC. Both were extremely rewarding and offered opportunities to learn about archive profession from the ground up. The best part of the internships were the archivists themselves: both were extremely busy managing the archives, yet always took the time to talk to me, comment on my work, and offer cogent feedback. Best of all is when we sat down and discussed the benefits AND pitfalls of being an archivists. They weren't trying to dissuade me from the profession (although the shockingly low pay can make some ask "why!"). They provided me their perspectives on what they thought the profession would offer, what the profession is at its current state, and what they feel the profession could be down the road. Budget concerns, staffing challenges (particularly post-pandemic), ever-expanding unprocessed material, born-digital material, how LIS programs and academic institutions can better prepare potential archivists, and lack of support from their parent institutions are just some of topics we discussed at length. I took their talks to heart because although they were at least twenty years my junior, clearly they've paid their dues to get where they are: multiple internships, contract work anywhere they can get it, and "side gigs" helped them gain the experience needed to secure permanent positions. Both internships were challenging on their own way, but they were so rewarding I applied for another one for the Spring semester, which I hope will broaden my experience to the point of landing a permanent position sometime in the future. I had a great time, and it was an experience I will never forget!

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

wow, thank you for taking the time to return and share an update! I am so glad to hear that you've gained experience through two amazing internships and that you had discussions with archivists. the picture they paint is certainly a current reality of the profession in a post-pandemic world. resources keep shrinking while the backlog/work keeps growing! at the end of the day, I would say most archivists are in this field because they find purpose in the work. overall I am happy and proud to be an archivist myself. I wish you best of luck as you continue your career journey!

I want to become one so badly I'm just fascinated with history I love it and to be apart of it would make me happy but I'm older and late to the party and I feel like it's too late to go to school and all that. But thank you for filming life as an archivist

Sheila, my inspiration ❤️

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

:)

great video!

Damn, this looks like the best job ever. I would be so excited about every single book I‘d touch, working there. I‘ve been thinking about whether I should go back to university and get a degree in library and information science for a while now, this is really reigniting it

@SheilaJoy

2 ай бұрын

It’s definitely a dream job! I am grateful to be in this field ☺️

Come across your vis because I'm an archivist albeit in financial services so not quite as exciting... Top stuff 👍👍

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

Ouu sounds interesting!!

Hi! I live in Pittsburgh I work for Carnegie library of Pittsburgh as a full time library clerk. I love it I graduated with an education degree but I don’t think it’s the field for me. I want to get my mls soon so I can become an adult librarian. So glad I found your channel I’ve been looking for more work days in the life of people who work in libraries

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

hello fellow Pennsylvanian! I used to live in Pittsburgh many years ago lol. The Carnegie library sounds amazing, but totally understand the feeling of needing something more fulfilling/in line with YOU. Glad to have you here :)

Very interesting to hear your experience. Im currently working on my MLIS, 100% online, no GRE required. But Im trying to decide if I want to work with archives or speacial libraries. With my passion for Genealogy Im leaning to archives.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

Very cool! I would agree to lean into archives work for genealogy based on my experience ☺️

thank you so much for this video Sheila, it was really helpful! i hadn't heard of archiving until a few weeks ago, when i impulsively went on a mad search for a new *career path* after my first degree didn't entirely work out (and after deciding i can't take another minute of retail lol). i'd love to see more day in the life type videos like these! i have a background in creative writing, so when you talked about doing a blog with the historic postcards i was like '!!!!' that basically combines my two favourite things. i'm a highly introverted person, so being on my own for long periods of time probably won't be an issue for me haha. what would you say is the most stressful part of your job? does it ever get chaotic or hard to manage? thank you again, i look forward to watching more of your videos!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment!! This warms my heart to hear you talk about the postcards + having a background in creative writing ☺️ and gosh, work has been very stressful lately. I just posted a new video where I share more about that!

I am from the Philippines and I am an aspiring archivist, I may not have a concrete background but because on how you explained what you do, I think I can do well in doing the job for I have the passion in preserving the past of our country and I thrive doing things alone.

@SheilaJoy

2 ай бұрын

Yes, totally! Passion is important for this field :)

Hii! I loved your channel, i'm currently finishing my bachelor degree in archives here in brazil and normally I don't work with books or library. I have been a internet for almost 5 years since my first semester and here we deal with permanent archives and technology isn't a must in our institute.

@milenaglog

2 жыл бұрын

Sorry for my basic English, but what I was trying to say is that I'm aspiring a master's degree out of the country and maybe build my career outside brazil

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for the comment, Milena! I hope your studies are going well. I personally don't care too much for the techy side of archives. Digital preservation is a bit out of my scope and I have a lot to learn... Our archives is still mostly dealing with paper records which I much prefer!

Thanks for the vid!! I’m currently in my junior year of my social work degree but I have no desire to enter the field. I’ve been thinking of getting an MLIS instead of getting a masters in social work or counseling, etc. :)

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for being here! Do you plan to finish your degree? You’re so far, but totally understand the struggle of not having any desire to do that type of work.

Today our department of History visited our state archive and the archivist told us about the work and now I'm really looking forward to study it,after finishing my BA in history, ill try to become an archivist😊

@SheilaJoy

8 ай бұрын

awesome! good luck :)

Firstly, thank you for the Q&A! Secondly, genuinely curious about how degrees tie in with colonialism? It was super interesting to hear your perspective, and I would be curious to learn more. I do however love that you are a living example of being an archivist without the MLIS degree.✨I currently work in a college library as a Library Tech but the dream is to become an archivist or art conservator. Both which require some degree or experience in the field, and training. But I like your view, that ultimately it can come down to passions, interests and ability to learn on the job! Very encouraging and inspiring!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

thanks for being here, Robin! I'd love to chat more about the colonialism/certificate thing in a future video as I decolonize my life & work and understand its connection more. realizing this has already had a positive effect on how I show up in my work/career and has helped me feel less like an imposter without all the fancy titles.

@robinortega3279

2 жыл бұрын

@@SheilaJoy Absolutely! & sorry if it is a loaded question LOL. But in all seriousness, it is a really good conversation/discussion to have! I definitely need to do the research, because it is something I never considered or thought about before. 🤯

Hi, Sheila! This has been so helpful. I also sort of mistrust with career blueprints tbh. Although they are helpful I don't believe they are beneficial to diversify a career so broad like archive work. I think we all have a lot to bring to the table and it's not always one-size fits all kind of field. Otherwise, I wouldn't want to pursue it. I am currently a Justice Studies major and a 4+1 program has opened up for a BA & MA in History. I am thinking about changing my major but am curious what you might think. Im mostly doing the accelerated program b/c my aid is time-based and could cover tuition completely this way. Option 2 is to get a BA in History then try to pursue an MLIS with only a couple semesters covered going in. Im still unsure but this video helped clarify some of my intentions. SO thank you!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Glad we are in the same page!! I hate the typical career track that’s shoved down our throats lol. I personally started out on a different track before deciding to do archives (art school) and the financial burden has really impacted me (student loan debt ugh) so TBH if I didn’t get my tuition covered in grad school (very thankful) I wouldn’t have enrolled which is sad but true for me. It’s unfortunate that we have such tough financial barriers here in the US (assuming you are based here, pls correct me if I’m wrong!) i always suggest trying to volunteer in the field first if you’re unsure if it’s the right path.

Thanks for the QandA. I am a senior history major with a public history minor. I am leaning towards a MLIS with a archives certification dual degree from LSU since it is online and combined.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

that sounds like a great direction to go in IMO. wishing you all the best!

@mollyfraze

Жыл бұрын

@@SheilaJoy Thanks! All the best to you as well!

I’m in PA! That’s so cool!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

hello neighbor!

Hi! Thanks for making this video. I feel like I've done a lot of what you discussed here, but I'm still struggling to break into the museum/archive world for my career. I have a BA in history and an MA in Public History, but instead of working in special collections, I was a teaching/research assistant and did internships for digital curation and preservation. I took multiple courses in curation. I graduated over a year ago and still cannot find a job in a museum or library. I currently work in data entry (which I try to think of like doing metadata, but less exciting). I really don't want to go back to school for another Masters degree because I managed to get both of my degrees without taking on debt - I was incredibly fortunate to be able to do this, but likely would not be able to do it again. I've applied to museum and library jobs all over the country and haven't even gotten an interview. Would you have any advice for someone like me trying to get into the field with no "hands-on" experience professionally, but has the education?

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment! man, I'm sorry to hear you're having trouble finding a job in this field. I know some of my graduate school friends were in the same boat for months and even years after graduation...unfortunately 1) jobs are limited and 2) candidates with experience are usually selected over those who lack it, even with education! I always suggest trying to gain experience, even if you have to volunteer. Not ideal at all, but it would help you stand out from other applicants. Data entry would be helpful on your resume too. Have you looked into religious archives for positions? Also digitization positions could be a good entry level job, and some places provide training. I also recommend looking at archivesgig.com/ for jobs...if you have not heard of it before. wishing you loads of luck!!

Thank you for the video. Sorry, I missed the Q & A. Could you talk about who you work with? Do you have a boss who gives you directions? Do you work on your own most days? Thanks!

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Great questions! I will pocket these for a future video :)

Hi hi! This video was MEGA helpful, thank so much :D I'm looking into being an archivist after grad school, but my major is in english. Do you think, from your experience, that is an okay major to have for the career? I've heard mixed responses when I've asked a few other people Thanks!

I agree with you that certain degrees and certificates aren't essential for jobs, but speaking as somebody who is in the final semester of my MLIS, the additional education isn't "just a piece of paper". I'm not arguing that everybody who is hired in archives should have an MLIS, just that my MLIS education has been incredibly valuable and served to broaden my on-the-job skills. Almost all the people I'm going to school with are already librarians, records managers, or archivists so I think in our field it is often something people pursue after they've had on-the-job experience already.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

thank you for your comment! apologies if my comment came off offensive (in retrospect I am totally projecting at my own lack of not having a MLIS degree, my student loans, and my frustration at the high education system haha) I'd love to go back to school and get a degree in the future, so it is certainly a dream of mine to have one. I'm glad to hear it has helped you advance in your career and you find it valuable!

@Kpup

Жыл бұрын

@@SheilaJoy It didn't at all! I'm afraid my comment came off a little harsh, but it wasn't my intention at all. I totally understand what you mean, and your reasons are why it took so long in the field to decide to go get my MLIS! Which is super common, I think.

This is exactly me! I have a Masters in history and will be moving to Virginia at the end of the month, from Oregon! I'm 47 and wondering if it's still possible to qualify for an internship? Or would that be necessary? I'm also interested in working remotely, if that's possible. I've heard the pay can vary on what type of archives you're in and where you work? I'm comfortable working on my own!😊 Once I know what I'm doing, of course. Is there on the job training? Thanks! I'm so excited to have found your channel!

the best career to me :)

Hi Shelia, This was very helpful and thoughtful. I have a question about programs I am interested in digital archives should I look for a school that specializes in that or offers it as one of the courses. Thank you.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

At a minimum I would recommend a school with classes tailored to digital archives so you can learn the theory and gain experience through your coursework. if you can find a specific program, even better!

i’m looking into the archivist journey/career as i’m currently choosing a major for a bachelor of arts (Australia) - would you recommend Ancient History, Modern History or Anthropology (what I was really drawn to) as a major to achieve best possible pathway to becoming an archivist? appreciate your video by the way, great help in understanding your line of work and the industry itself. cheers :)

@SheilaJoy

2 ай бұрын

how exciting! I have a friend and former colleague who wants to be an archaeologist and has gone to school for it, but she has also worked in archives settings. Honestly, any of those are probably a good choice. What matters for employers is if you have knowledge and experience working in an archives and doing historical research. You'll gain the research experience in school so I would suggest volunteering or interning at an archives related institution. Best of luck!

My plan is to become an archivist as well! 👾

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

yay!!

What advice would you give a person that is getting their Masters in Library Science? And that what's to get into the Archives/ Special Collections side of things?

@SheilaJoy

7 ай бұрын

My number one tip is always gain hands on experience in an actual archives as employers look for folks with experience over those who do not!

Maybe you will see this comment. Hopefully. Okay so, I got my Bachelor's in Psychology and then I minored in Sociology. Originally wanted to be a guidance counselor, ended up not doing the because I felt like it would take a toll on me mentally. I've been looking into MLIS masters programs because I enjoy research, organizing, writing, reading etc. Although, looking back in my past at education, I've always been really bad at History academically. Maybe it's just more memorizing dates was not my thing lol. It does interest me. I love going to museums and learning about specific time periods etc. etc. but I found some history to be fairly boring. Is this something that would hinder my ability to become an archivist. I find the career field extremely interesting though and I am fascinated by it.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

I originally thought about majoring in sociology myself but ended up in history as it seemed the most practical choice for me (which it was!) I feel like the history we are taught in the K-12 system can certainly hinder our interest in history. I’m grateful I found a passion for learning and wanting to help make history fun, which led my into archives. MLIS coursework seems to be centered more on the information science of things, and less on the academic history side of things. I don’t think your situation would hinder you. It seems like you already having the research and writing skills to succeed in this like of work, which you would need more than being super knowledgeable of history. I don’t consider myself an expert in any particular area of history…I much prefer organizing the records created by history and helping people access them!

I majored in Asian Studies with minor in Translation. I’m considering going back to school for MLIS but i’m nervous about job prospects

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

a MLIS would boost your resume for sure! you could look into work at an archives/museum with Asian history collections and/or looking for someone who speaks a specific language.

❤

I have an athro b.a. and I used to volunteer in archives of a natural history museum. I'm doing crm right now (commercial archaeology) but I think I want to end up back in a museum archives. Would you suggest going back for an mlis or doing more volunteering to get experience to land a job? Or

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

amazing work! I am fascinated by anthropology and really enjoyed the cultural anthro class I took in undergrad. I will say having a degree will help you stand out in a pool of applicants vs. the volunteer work. of course, consider your finances when making that decision!

@robbiem4624

Жыл бұрын

sadly, people like you are not mentioned of success stories for going into archaeology.

Hi! I'm about to start my MLIS program in preparation for becoming an archivist. I know people usually avoid this conversation but I think it's an important one to have - are you able to live comfortably with your salary as an archivist, espically while paying student loans? (if you have any)

@clovebae

8 ай бұрын

I'm curious about this too, the salary for archivists in my area ($30/hr average) is dismal for the amount of school you need for the job

@SheilaJoy

7 ай бұрын

Great q! I answer some of these questions on my Instagram story (I have a highlight where it’s saved) Yes, I am able to live comfortably and pay all my bills, have some spending money, and I also save money to pay off my student loans. I budget my money and am intentional with how I spend it which plays a role. However, I’d love to make more money of course with the cost of living/inflation and so I can pay off my loans faster and buy a house, etc etc 🙈 I recently got a raise which I asked for so that’s given my paychecks a boost. But sadly, most people in this field don’t get paid enough and I wish it wasn’t that way!!

@SheilaJoy

7 ай бұрын

I should also add that I’ve been a professional archivist for over 7 years and have obviously worked my way up the “ladder” in terms of getting raises. When I started out my full time salary was $25,000 a year which I thought was amazing LOL (keep in mind this was like 7-8 years ago) I’ve come a long way since then so clearly we make financial sacrifices in order to work in this field, but I also value the slow pace and low-stress aspect of the job which I will gladly take over getting paid more and being in a high-stress environment.

Hi Sheila, thank you for the Q and A. Before watching your videos I had no idea about this career. If I knew when I was in college, I would have done it. I have a degree in psychology and a MA in school psychology. Currently I’m living in India, do you know if this career can be done virtually? I love to study and experience culture and history. Thank you 🙏

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

glad this video was helpful for you! I think a lot of schools have transitioned to online classes (don't quote me on that lol), but it can be hard to gain experience if you do everything virtually. If you're interested in digital archiving that may be easier to learn remotely since the records you would be archiving are electronic/digital records...something to look into if it piques your interest!

@izabela914

2 жыл бұрын

@@SheilaJoy thank for the information 👍 I’ll look into virtually archive, have a great day 💖🙏😘

hello! i have very recently become interested in archiving as a career path! i am currently in school for english as my major, and i am trying to figure out what my minor will end up being. do you think volunteering at my state’s archives would be helpful for getting a feel of what the job is and if i would like it?

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

yes, 100% recommend volunteering at your state's archives to get an idea of what it's like!!

Hello, do you have any thoughts about a masters program in MARA (Masters of Archives and Records Administration) vs MLIS in order to become an archivist? I am graduating with a bachelors in both History and Spanish and am considering which graduate program to go into that would be best suited for an aspiring archivist. Thank you for any help!

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

I have no experience with MARA, but it sounds like a great option to me! Now I’m going to look more into it…Employers look for a masters degree in a related field to MLIS so you should be good. Good luck!

24 seconds in, Starbucks Pike, 1 Corinthians 13:8 cup, HalleluYAH, found a sister 😁❤️✝️ liked subscribed clicked the bell; and about the job, I really want something laid back, quiet, stress-free, without commotion, working alone type job, so I'm considering doing the mlis and going into archiving. Being a librarian is also an option but from what I understand, an archivist is the behind the scenes person, I would love to be that. Willing to work minimum wage as long as I can avoid commotion

Dream job.

Hello! Im a historian and am a new subscriber! I am also in Pennsylvania! We should be friends as I am also about to start working in archives! I love archives! Its also a field I studied.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

hello and yay for new archives friends! welcome :)

I'm a software engineer with a fascination with history so I wanted to look into digital archiving as a later-in-life career. Is there a lot of database work involved? I mostly work with databases now, but with fintech apps, but the basic premise of preserving information is similar.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

yes, there is certainly database work! employers look for applicants with experience with archival description and certain collections databases. digital archiving is also on the rise as technology continues to shift at a rapid pace.

@vulpixelful

Жыл бұрын

@@SheilaJoy Good to know, thanks!

@voidBagel

7 ай бұрын

hi! i’m kind of in a similar position, i am studying computer engineering with a focus on multimedia, and i also work part time in a museum but as a docent (i love art and history) and i was wondering if someone following a similar career path as mine would be able to work in digitization and digital archiving

since archivist use the process of scanning & digitization to preserve text, are there any tech / computer related courses or majors that are required?

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

I didn’t take any courses on scanning/digitization in school, so I would say no to needing them as a requirement. I’ve taken workshops/once off courses post grad while in the field though!

Do you think going back to school to become an Archivist would be worth it? I keep hearing that there are hardly any positions available, do you think that's true/do you have insight on this industry? Just weighing my options (I currently volunteer in an archives)

@SheilaJoy

7 ай бұрын

Great q! TBH the price of higher education right now is outrageous (I mean, it has always been since I was in school over 10 years ago) so it’s hard for me to answer that question. Many factors play a role in terms of job availability. If you’re in a major city there will be more vs. a more rural area. If you’re already in debt, are student loans worth it? Are they worth it even if you’re not in debt already? If you don’t go to school will you have the proper education/credentials employers want? If you don’t go to school you can gain experience, but that might take longer to get to where you want to be…so lots of variables to consider!!

I have a bachelors in photography and someone just told me about photo archivists. I googled and it says typically archivists need a masters degree...is that true? Could having a bachelor's in photography and then an internship that included photo archiving work otherwise?

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

I always wanted to be a photo archivist when I was in school. One day maybe that will happen! While most job applications will say they "require" or "prefer" a masters degree, I will always be an advocate for people with experience vs. a degree! So yes, a bachelor's in photography with an internship in archives would be a good stepping stone into the field :)

Do you think this job is something people with physical disabilities could do? (Spinal cord injury) it looks like standing and moving boxes is s major part of your job, my major concern is standing for long periods though. I am able to move heavy objects but if I am standing for any period of time over 30 mins or so this isn’t going to be a reality for me.

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

Great question!! A lot of job positions will include that you need to be able to lift up to 40 lbs and I feel like that’s where I struggle bc I have weak arms plus have been experiencing wrist problems. While I’m on my feet a lot it’s not for long periods of time, I do sit a lot especially if you’re processing a collection or working on the computer. Organizations should prioritize hiring folks with disabilities and if they discriminate bc of that, then they need to work on being more equitable!

ooo wow

If I have an MA in history and BA in English, what are my chances to get an archivist job ?

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

MA in history is usually part of the qualifications, so you're good on that! archives experience is the top thing employers look for, so I always recommend looking for a very entry level position where they don't require much experience, or try and gain experience through volunteering or internship. Depending where you live there may be positions for recent graduates only. Good luck!

Hi I am Robbie I graduated with my bachelors in ag business from California State University, Chico. I chose it because California being partially an ag state and I wanted something different than business administration. However, I graduated with my degree when the pandemic started and I was turning 36, not married, and no kids. I graduated with no debt. I liked parts of my degree but entirely all of it and i loved history. I do not live in a blog city so unless you do marketing/sales, or retail or Fastfood there are no jobs up here unless your related to or you know someone who is high up in management of the company or county office of that you want to work at. I am looking to get my bachelor's in history online from the University of Arkansas. Then am thinking of going for my masters. How were you able to get your foot in the door with just a bachelor's degree?

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for your comment and sharing about your background! My biggest tip is to gain experience which can look like volunteering, an internship, or entry-level position related to archives. I understand there might not be many options where you live but Id look into opportunities at a local or country historical society, museum, archives, or library to get your feet in the door!

@robbiem4624

Жыл бұрын

@@SheilaJoy I did volunteer for my local historical society, but it was for a brief time. Me and my parents might me moving to Scottsdale Arizona in a few years not because my brother lives there. I am happy because of health care, bigger city, and better opportunity for jobs.

Did you take Studying relate with archieving or library science?

@SheilaJoy

2 ай бұрын

I majored in "Public History" in graduate school and took a course on archiving, plus worked in the university archives there. My learning has been mainly hands-on training. Today I take some workshops here and there to brush up on my knowledge and what's new in the field. Hope that helps!

can an accountant shift to archives? i'm quite scared in shifting careers

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

My top tip to getting a job in archives is to gain experience. If you're scared, try volunteering at a local historical society to see if it's something you can see yourself doing plus it's a great way to gain experience and get a taste of the field!

What's on the database how to use it

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

We use PastPerfect as our collections database!

Question how much does curating come up as a professional archivist ?

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

in my mind (and experience) I view "curating" as a skill and "curator" as a position more with the museum field. I have, however, curated exhibits in past archives internships, so there is definitely a crossover between the archives and museum field if you work somewhere that also likes to put materials on exhibit!

Hello mam. I am from INDIA. I followed you past 2 years. I have queries regarding archivist. How to contact you,

Thank you for your énergétique lovely in the vedio pleas tell me about salary of archive? It's good?

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

Salaries range from assistant, entry level, all the way up to head archivist, depending where you live of course. You can expect to start out with a low salary and work your way up as you gain more experience. It’s definitely not a high paying job compared to other careers, but I am content with my salary and love what I do!

Books are not archives, confused?😊

@SheilaJoy

29 күн бұрын

well for me I work in a place where I manage both the archives and library side of things lol.

Wow! I didn’t know how much wine an archivist must drink in order to have enough space for books!!!!! 🤣🤣🤣

What type of archivist are you

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

I work at a religious archives :)

"Credentialism" is interesting because it's assumed it comes from western colonialism, but it was very prominent in Confucianist thinking in China. The original idea was that it's more fair because getting a high status government job would be merit-based instead of where you were born. But in reality, only really prominent families could afford to educate their children on the level that led to great scores on occupation exams.

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

fascinating!!

Random but do you know your MBTI type?

@SheilaJoy

2 жыл бұрын

LOVE this question. I am an ISFJ :)

u need a husband.

Hi sheila! Thank u for having this video! I'm thinking of finding some part-time job which is related to MLIS, i wanna give a try to find if i'm qualified with it. However, It is a little bit hard in my country, so i'm wondering whether i should turn to find a job in bookstore... ...It seems do not have so much relation with MLIS. I'll really appreciate it if you could share your ideas on this!

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

I think a book store is a good alternative! I have a friend who is a book seller and catalogs/lists rare books so they get to use their library/archives knowledge in a retail setting.

Hi i've been depressed and stuck in my room for years but ive been thinking about doing this or a librarian assistant. 🙂‍↔️ im trying to gather all the strength i can because i dont want to rot

@SheilaJoy

29 күн бұрын

I'm cheering you on!

Thank you for making this video! Super helpful & informative. I do have one question: I’m very interested in becoming an archivist but I’m worried about the digital aspect of the job. I don’t want to end up spending 8hrs a day in front of a screen. I realize that everything is digitized nowadays, and wondering if this takes up a lot of your work day. Thanks in advance! 🫶

@SheilaJoy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for being here! I also hate sitting in front of a screen for long periods of time and try to avoid it as much as I can. Fortunately for me, much of my work requires hands-on work away from a screen. We’re also more focused on processing our physical backlog and not so much digitization or electronic records. I think it would depend on the place you work and what your position is whether or not how much you’d be in front of a screen!