Featured student: Kateryna Kramchenkova

1. Why did you choose the iSchool?

After graduating with a Bachelor’s degree I realized I didn’t have a profession. I ended up working at the Archives and really enjoyed it. I decided to continue my career in records and information management. My colleagues recommended this program to me.

2. Did you know what path you would choose before beginning your Masters?  Any second thoughts on your planned area of study?

At first I was inclined to choose the Archives and Records Management path. But I changed to Information Systems and Design path. Now at my current work I use skills and knowledge from both of these streams. However, my recommendation would be to stick with one path from the beginning and take all possible courses in this area.

3. What are your career goals?

I want to develop information systems in a healthcare setting to support Electronic Health Records.

4. What has been your most rewarding moment at the iSchool?

The most rewarding moment is when you use knowledge gained in class at work.

5. The most challenging?

Last week of classes in April is a very challenging time for students. My advice is to plan ahead.

6. What has been your favourite course and why?

I want to develop information systems in a healthcare setting to support Electronic Health Records.

My favourite courses:

1. INF2121:  Specialized Archives
2. INF2170:  Information Architecture 
3. INF2199:  Selected Topics in Health Informatics 

These classes were especially interactive and engaging.

7. Have you been working since starting your studies?

Yes, I worked part-time and studied full-time.

8. What about your social life?

iSchool is located in the downtown Toronto which is very convenient for attending social events in the city.

9. What have you learned since starting the program that would have been useful to know beforehand?

1. Ability to take courses outside the iSchool
2. Ability to audit iSchool courses

10. As a second year student, what advice would you give a first year student?  

1. Make a plan for your graduate studies
2. Know what you want to accomplish
3. One of your goals should be publishing an article
4. Use all of the facilities at the UofT downtown campus (athletics, clubs, learning centre)
5. Do a practicum
6. Network!

 
11. How do you think you’ve changed since last year?

Today I have confidence in my future and my career. Information is a valuable resource for any organization and there is a need for people who can control and manage it.

–June 2012