Given the opportunity to study abroad, DUT’s Kasturie Moodley seized the opportunity, graduating with a Master’s in Library and Information Science as well as obtaining a Certificate of Advanced Study in Data Science and receiving the Antje Lemke Book Award for Class of 2014 at the Syracuse University, USA.
The Acquisitions and e-Resources librarian was fortunate enough to have spent two years in the USA on a Fulbright Scholarship and cherishes the experience which has not only increased her academic knowledge, but her cultural understanding of the United States as well.
“One of the main reasons that I applied for this scholarship was because it recognizes the importance of all fields of study. The Fulbright Programme has a variety of fellowships designed to create an understanding between people worldwide through educational exchanges. The programme, named after Senator J. William Fulbright, allows students and scholars from different backgrounds to live in another country and study, do research or teach. Since 1953, more than 1500 South Africans and Americans have participated in the Fulbright Exchange Programme. I am fortunate to have had an opportunity to participate in the Programme,” she said excitedly.
Talking about her experience overseas, Moodley said it was a challenge adjusting to the academic environment in a new country. “There are different academic expectations with many classes expecting you to have knowledge of the United States in your respected fields. I also had to figure out that unless you speak out and voice your opinion, you are invisible,” she said.
She also reiterated that she found the calibre of learning between the United States and South Africa the same, at least in the field of Library and Information Science/Studies.
“However, the style of learning is different because most South African classrooms tend to be more structured and lean more towards the authoritarian side when compared to the US, while US schools try to encourage critical thinking skills as well as student/lecturer interaction,” added Moodley.
A highlight of her academic studies in the US was her receiving the Antje Lemke Book Award. ”It was an unexpected honour to receive the accolade and I am grateful and privileged to be a recipient. The Antje Lemke Book Award accolade has encouraged me to continue to serve the library and information science profession, to strive to reach greater heights of becoming a leader in this profession and to become more involved in community work,” said Kasturie.
She stressed that she would definitely consider going back to further her studies if she is given another opportunity to do so. “It has opened up a range of future research possibilities, community engagement and opportunities to develop my skills as an information professional in new and exciting contexts. I intend to bring my experience of the international library environment into the DUT Library Services in the hope of reaching and achieving the vision of the University and the Library Services. I am grateful to both the Fulbright Programme and DUT for supporting a transformative academic experience,” she said.
– Waheeda Peters
Kasturie Moodley is all smiles upon receiving her Master’s degree in the USA.
