Meet Student Library Assistant Fiona Carter

Major: Psychology

Year: Freshman

Hometown: Fairfield, CT

What was your first impression of RWU? I thought it was beautiful. Everyone I met was open and willing to help me acclimate.

Why were you interested in working in the library? I like working with people, and found the idea of working at the service desk appealing. I previously worked at a storefront and really enjoyed that, so thought the service desk might be a good fit for me. I also find the library very peaceful, and I’m drawn to that.

What has surprised you most about working at the library? I didn’t realize how much I would like shelf reading. Most people don’t like it, but I find it very relaxing.

How would your best friend describe you? She would describe me as very compassionate and giving.

What might someone be surprised to know about you? When I’m passionate about something, I’m not afraid to speak my mind.

What do you do when you aren’t studying or working? I love to sing! In fact, I’m a member of RWU’s a cappella group Hawkward. I also love to spend time with my friends.

What’s your dream job, Fiona? I would love to work on Broadway or star in a big movie.

Do you like to read? What’s your favorite book? I do like to read. My favorite book is All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven.

How about movies—do you have a favorite? I love Good Will Hunting and the Disney movie Tangled. I think I watched Tangled at least 30 times when I was a little girl!

Who has had the most profound effect on your life? My mom, by far. In fact, she’s my hero and role model. We volunteered together for the National Charity League, a multi-generational philanthropic organization of mothers and daughters who volunteer close to three million hours annually to charities in the United States. We served together weekly at a soup kitchen, and that time spent with her is time I really cherish.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten? Don’t dwell on the future-all you can control is what you’re doing right now.

What things are most important to you now? I’m working hard to set myself up for a good career and to develop discipline. Friendship is important to me, so I’m also focusing on developing lifelong friends while I’m here at RWU.

Do you have a personal life philosophy? Yes, be mindful and present in day-to-day life. Check in with yourself regularly and make sure that you are becoming the person you want to be. It’s important to be self-aware and able to admit when you are wrong. Most importantly, always consider how your actions and behavior affects others.

How do you hope to make this world a better place? Through simple day-to-day interactions. I think that you can inspire people through your kindness and demeanor and that even the smallest positive actions can have a beneficial impact on others.