big announcement time

None of these announcements are that secret but I’ve yet to address them directly on the blog. Mostly because I’m an awful blogger these days. I think a lot about writing posts but damn if I ever get them done. Anyway, updates!

Library School
I started grad school earlier this month; I am officially a Masters of Library Science candidate at the University at Buffalo. For the time being, I’ll take classes on a part-time basis and remain at my full time job. This semester I’m taking an “Introduction to Library and Information Sciences” course and a “School Media Center Experience” course. I’m going to be a busy lady and one day, I hope to be a school librarian.

The decision to go back to school for Library Science was several years in the making. I was actually going back and forth between getting an MFA or becoming a teacher. I researched programs, considered timelines, and remained in a holding pattern. Throughout this time, I watched my friend Brynn go through a Library Science masters program and complete her first two years as a school librarian. I’ve always been super interested in her work and the profession librarian community.

When I realized that I could do what she did, it was like someone hit me over the head: duh. Why didn’t I think of this sooner?

So far I’m thrilled with the material, my professors, and being back in school. I’m glad I took time off between undergrad and this Master’s program. I am a totally different student, one much better suited to graduate work.

Sean’s running for office
Yes, that’s right. Sean is running for the New York State Senate’s 58th District seat. I’ll post more information about his campaign in the future, including how you can be helpful, but for now here’s some reads:

Meet Sean Cooney, Candidate for State Senate (video)
Sean Cooney for State Senate
Challengers Line up for Stachowski
Race for 58th State Senate seat shapes up
Council aide seeks Stachowski’s seat; more expected

I’m proud of Sean for taking this challenge on and am excited to get to work on the campaign this summer. I know he will be a progressive leader and advocate for sincere, meaningful reform in the Senate.

Etsy shop opened
And finally, I opened an Etsy Shop: whitney arlene photography.The shop was one of my Mondo Beyondo dreams and I’m really proud that it’s open for operation.

If you’re interested in purchasing any photos you see here on the blog, please feel free to send me a message through Etsy and I can make arrangements.