Student Blog: The Research Assistants in the Library

Editor’s note:  This entry is from ‘Lizabeth DiSiena, one of our two Law Student Research Assistants at the library.  We asked her to write about her experience because we will be hiring one additional research assistant (this name will be changed to Research Fellow) for the summer.

The projects I work on cover a variety of topics which allows me to acquire insight on many areas of law. Typically, assignments come as faculty requests that are sent to the research librarians. After explaining the details of what the project entails, the librarians delegate the project to either myself or the other Research Assistant.

Most of the projects I work on require some facet of legal research. However, there have been a few projects that have focused on the use of technology in the legal field.  Examples include a newsletter for 1Ls on how to use research databases, a poster for a faculty meeting on the benefits of faculty services, and data collection on the famous Dr. Sam Sheppard Trials.

In assisting with faculty projects requiring research, I use traditional and non-traditional sources. Instead of using Lexis Advance and WestlawNext, which are great sources for most legal research, I am able to explore other research databases that enhance my research skills.

If I happen to stumble upon a difficult research question I am always able ask the law librarians for their advice and expertise on how to more effectively search for answers. Learning how to complete faculty projects in an efficient and presentable manner translates well to any future career.

I’ve had a great experience being a Research Assistant for the Law Library. The writing, research, and organizational skills gained from working in conjunction with faculty and the library staff are irreplaceable.  I feel very fortunate to be able to come to the Law Library each day not only as a part of my attendance at Cleveland-Marshall College of Law but as my place of employment.