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Todd Mendenhall is the Executive Administrative Specialist to the Dean of the Nelson Poynter Memorial Library on the USF St. Petersburg campus. He is graduating this Summer with his Master’s in Learning Design and Technology, with a concentration in E-learning Design and Development. Todd loves spending time with his family and anything in, on, or around the water.
How has the Library contributed toward your academic goals?
I absolutely love working at the library! Just being in an atmosphere filled with aspiring students, staff, and researchers is very motivating. All of the management and fellow staff here are very supportive and encouraging. On top of all that, being able to take advantage of our amazing employee tuition program took away any financial concerns with continuing my education
How has working at the Library aided in your career goals?
Prior to joining the library, I had a 14 year career in Newspaper Operations. When my time at the newspaper came to an end, I decided on three criteria that I wanted in my next career: I wanted to work in a beautiful environment, with people who were excited about their mission, doing important work that I am passionate about. Working in the library met all of those conditions and also provides the opportunity for continuing education and career advancement.
What are the next steps in your career?
I am not 100% sure but I want to continue working in education in a position that takes advantage of my skills and capabilities and allows for continued growth.
What advice would you give someone on a similar path as yours?
Love where you are at but never stop learning, and take advantage of the employee tuition program!
How has it been working and studying during the pandemic? How did you balance it all?
For me, working/studying during a pandemic was a lot easier than for most. I have no young kids at home, a stable job that could be done from home (thank you USF and the Libraries!), and the technology in place to do my job. My degree program was already 100% online so studying was pretty much the same as before. I know that was not the case for many and truly feel for their struggles.
What’s one skill or fact you learned about yourself over the past year of the pandemic?
I have always enjoyed working with and through technology, so moving to online work was not too challenging for me. I did find that I could pack more into the day without the interruptions of having to walk from place to place etc…..but the work did not feel as fulfilling without seeing the students!
What are you most excited to get back to?
I returned to work in the office full time a few weeks back. I love walking on the campus grounds and the casual conversations that pop up with friends and colleagues. Outside of work, it is nice to be able to at least start planning to travel again!
Congratulations on graduating, Todd! And thank you for your contributions to the USF Libraries! GO BULLS! 🤘