As a student helper, my main responsibilities on the technical side included updating the HKUST website and inventorying archive collection items upon delivery, such as organising archived photo files and meticulously recording names and code numbers for various folders. These tasks taught me the importance of precision and systematic work in preserving valuable collections.

I also had the opportunity to assist with exhibitions, where I discovered the enjoyment of guiding guests and contributing to these events. I welcomed visitors, directed them to Special Collections (Room 1-361) and the KPS Gallery, and captured their delighted reactions to the displays. Witnessing guests from different countries marvel at rare paintings, maps, and books for the first time filled me with pride in our collections.

Helping to plan the gallery layout, including measuring and precisely aligning background panels, further honed my attention to detail. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues for their patient guidance and for creating such a warm and supportive environment. Overall, this multifaceted role helped me recognize patience as one of my strengths and gave me confidence that it will serve me well in my future career.

Over the past five months working in the University Archives and Special Collections, I have developed a range of skills, including graphic design, documentation, filing, gallery setup, time management, and tour guiding. As an engineering student, a major highlight for me was the opportunity to explore my creative side. I designed a poster for the gallery’s feedback wall and arranged bookshelf displays. 

One key takeaway from working with the team is that growth comes from striving to improve by being curious, humble, and committed. This experience exposed me to opportunities I did not expect, but ones I thoroughly enjoyed and learned from. 

More about Terry’s work experience: Discovering the Art of Display: An Engineering Student’s Journey at the Library

Working as a student helper in the Resource Management has been an invaluable learning experience, particularly in understanding how a university library operates behind the scenes. This exposure allowed me to appreciate the complexity involved in maintaining an effective and functional library system.

My work on record editing gave me insight into managing bibliographic details and verifying the accuracy of information in the system. This highlighted the meticulous work required to ensure data integrity and reinforced the importance of precision in data management.

The role also offered insight into organizational dynamics, showing how streamlined workflows and operational efficiency are essential in a large institution. Understanding how our team’s work contributes to the broader operation has been a key takeaway for me.

I never expected to gain so much from my journey as a student helper. Beyond developing valuable skills, I had the opportunity to meet supportive staff members and fellow student helpers who truly brightened my university life. This experience has given me far more than I anticipated, and I am genuinely glad that I chose to become a student helper.

One of my most important takeaways is gaining a deeper understanding of the librarian’s role. Before taking on this position, I did not realize how many challenges librarians face in their daily work. Through this experience, I learned to be more considerate, to see situations from different perspectives, and to better understand both users and staff members.

Receiving the Outstanding Student Helper Award encourages me to continue improving myself, contributing positively to the community, and applying these communication and empathy skills in my future academic and professional journey.

I have been working as a student helper in the library for almost two years, and I am very grateful for this opportunity. This experience has allowed me to better understand the behind-the-scenes operations of the library as a community hub, where staff take on different roles.

One of the most valuable takeaways has been learning how to connect people with the information they need, regardless of the situation. This role has taught me that patience and approachability can make a meaningful difference.
I am grateful for the support and kindness that the staff at the HKUST Library have shown me throughout this journey.