Who is the author of the blog?

In case you were wondering where I have been, I was working on a couple of projects. I am back and I thought this would make for the perfect time to share a little about the person behind the computer. 

The Face Behind the Blog

Amanda Carey

Picture of Amanda Carey

A Brief Bio:

My name is Amanda Carey and I am one of the part-time reference librarians for Atlantic Cape Community College. In addition to my employment with the college, I work full-time as a school librarian at Slaybaugh Elementary School in Egg Harbor Township.

I never imagined being a librarian. In fact, I started my college journey in the fall of 2008 right here at ACCC as a business major. A few semesters in and I decided to change my major to criminal justice because my dream of owning a salon went out the window during prom season due to allergies and asthma.

Once I finished my time here, I moved on to Stockton University and graduated with my degree. Not without getting married and having a set of twin boys first, however.

When I graduated, I stayed home to care for my twins and (not long after) third child. It was during this time as a Stay At Home Mom (SAHM) that I was presented with an opportunity to work part-time as a library assistant at the Egg Harbor Township High School. I was excited to have a chance to get out of the house while still being home with my children for most of the time. I had no idea that I would love my job so much that I would decide to join the graduate program with Rutgers and earn my Masters of Information degree.

Fast forward a couple of years and I am working here serving the wonderful ACCC community!

(I also added child #4!)

Interests:

I love the outdoors. Sitting and looking out at the world is one of the most peaceful, beautiful, and simple treasures in life. I love the mountains. My dream is to retire to a nice lodge(ish) home in the mountains. I am a bit of busy-body too so I like to go on adventures like hiking new trails, exploring waterfalls, jumping off cliffs into the water, and living life to the fullest!

Inspiration:

To put it simply, my inspiration comes from my children. I look at those faces and have this burning desire to show them that they can truly reach their dreams with a little sweat, tears, and perseverance. I also want to model a fail-forward mindset. Life will knock us down sometimes, we just have to get back up and keep on keepin' on.

Favorite Books:

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Lucky by Alice Sebold

Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

A Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Favorite Quotes:

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world."

-Harriet Tubman

"Research is a formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose."

-Zora Neale Hurston

"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn."

-Benjamin Franklin

Piece of Advice:

When you feel like you aren't sure where your life is headed, take a moment to breathe and continue moving forward. Clarity will come with each step you take.

Life is a rollercoaster. There are ups, downs, twists, and turns. Don't be discouraged by it because every coaster ride reaches its destination.

Changing your mind isn't a bad thing if that means you find where you belong in the world.