Awkward Sweater Party Knits UCLA Students Together

With Winter 2011 course registration underway, UCLA ALA Student Chapter and the Student Chapter of the Special Libraries Association co-hosted an awkward sweater and cookie frosting party for mentors and mentees, and any students who wanted guidance, had questions, or wanted to offer advice on choosing classes.With Crayola-colored spiced frosting, sugar cookies, nonpareils, a crackling (digital) fire, and more sequins, bows, and shoulder pads than Madonna's wardrobe in the 80s, first and second-year MLIS students exchanged the inside skinny on UCLA's winter offerings.

The most common questions from first years centered on core classes, including Information Technology and Information Access, two courses on information tools and reference, respectively, required for graduation.  Second year students were more concerned about the portfolio requirement, which, though due in Spring 2011, looms heavy.

Fortunately the cookies and silly sweaters brought a little levity to the gift-wrapped table, and as much gossip as grad requirements were overheard.  Fortified by sugar for finals week and better prepared for choosing courses, the awkward sweater party was a smash success!