Hello Reformistas! My name is Marina Luz Corrales. I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new Blog Editor for the Reforma SJSU iSchool Student and Alumni Group (I’ll figure out how to shorten that later… Reforma iSchool Blog Editor…?). I’m a Bay Area native who, like many others in Library and Information Services (LIS), took a roundabout road to get here.
I’ve worked in various higher education capacities for the past 20 years. On my way to Reforma and the iSchool, I earned an MA in anthropology from SJSU, an MA in education from UC Irvine, and enrolled in an EdD program at Santa Clara University. I’m proud to share that I’m now a doctoral candidate and will graduate in 2025. My research focuses on the experiences of Latine undergraduates using library resources before and during college, a topic that I’m deeply passionate about.
I decided to join Reforma because of the extensive network and support that comes with membership. The Reforma officers have been instrumental in making me feel welcome and connected despite being in a 100% online program. Additionally, I had the chance to meet Reforma members from chapters nationwide, including our phenomenal faculty advisor, Dr. Villagran, aka Dr. V, at the American Library Association’s (ALA) conference this year. Connecting with people with similar passions for supporting Latinos in various capacities is affirming; I can’t say enough good things about it.
I want to pay it forward by serving as the Blog Editor for the iSchool’s Reforma Group. The support across the board in connecting to experts and opportunities in the field before and after the conference has been incredible. By joining our community, you can gain access to resources and opportunities and contribute to our mission of supporting underserved students. I hope our group will continue to grow to support and connect with more LIS students. If you want to know more about joining our community, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d love to hear your ideas on connecting and building community with one another. Thanks!