Researcher Spotlight #2
It’s time for another Research Spotlight! This week, the CEMVC would like to recognize one of our Undergraduate Researchers, Désirée Worrall-Bélanger!
Désirée just finished her first year at Mount Allison University and is looking forward to her second year. Her goal is to pursue an Honours degree focusing on English and History. Désirée’s journey with the CEMVC started in October of 2020 due to her interest in classical literature – a perfect fit for the Centre.
In her free time, Désirée enjoys reading and learning languages (including French, English, and even Ancient Greek!). Her passion for learning is evident as she continues to thrive, both in her academic work and her work with the CEMVC.
Want to know more about Désirée? You’re in luck! She took the time to answer some exciting questions about the CEMVC to help you get to know her better:
Q: What inspired you to join the CEMVC?
A: I received an email with all the information on the position through my very first history course at Mount Allison. When I read the details, I was sure I wanted to apply. I’ve loved working behind a computer and doing research since I was maybe 6 years old, so I knew this was the perfect job for me. Being an English and History student, I was also very interested in the research I would have to do as a metadata assistant, making this position all the more appealing to me.
Q: What is your favourite CEMVC collection to date?
A: Since I joined the team, I’ve been dedicating my time to our Aesop’s Fables collection and I am amazed by how many different editions there are. Although I haven’t had the chance to work on other collections yet, Aesop’s Fables has been pretty interesting to work on. From the languages to the different illustrations that were chosen to depict each edition, Aesop’s Fables will remain in my top 5, I’m certain.
Q: How do you think that metadata will change the research experience for future students and academics?
A: I believe metadata will allow students to deepen their research and embellish it. Having access to such a vast library of illustrations and precise details on the collections at hand will allow them to elaborate much further in whatever project or research they may be working on. Whether a Science or an Arts student, they’ll be able to find the information they need. I believe some may even find relief in knowing they have easy access to so much information, meaning they won’t have to spend too much of their precious time on finding academic sources.