SLIS Alumni News

SLIS graduate Emily Heinlen (MLS'07) is working as a Research Associate for the Indiana University Foundation here in Bloomington. Her position is an example of non-traditional career paths that SLIS graduates can pursue.

Emily answered questions about her job in a recent email interview.

What are your key job duties?
My job duties are three-fold. First, I research potential IU donors. These donors fall into three categories: individual, corporate and foundation. Then, I analyze the information and write a profile and analysis of the potential donor. This information is then used by a variety of individuals during meetings and other donor contacts.

What do you like most about your job?
I love being able to research all day long. Not only is it incredibly fun, but the results of my research have the potential of helping to identify new donors to the university, which makes it extremely exciting!

Any advice for current students?
My advice is to find an area in which your interest is drawn and focus your studies in that area. I found that I was interested in research and reference and, therefore, focused the majority of my studies in those areas.

Any other comments?
I owe a great deal of gratitude to Professors Lokman Meho and Pnina Shachaf, who helped guide my research, both during their traditional courses and my independent study courses.

Posted Oct. 28, 2009