Quincy Jones has worked for Lupton Library since 2009. He began his sophomore year and despite all unintentional efforts, we never scared him off. Quincy’s graduating this semester and while we’re not ready to let him go, we know whomever lands him next will be as fortunate as we have been. Just prior to finals, we sat down with Quincy for an exit interview, to take stock of his highs and lows as a student and worker at UTC:
What was your impression about the library before working here? Before this job, I barely came to the library. So when I first started, I did a lot of studying in the library. I became more aware of the resources, and more familiar with online databases. But now I mostly come here for work. I also didn’t know that librarians could have a sense of humor. It’s not the stale place I thought it was.
What will you miss most about working at the library? The library gave me a different experience and I learned a lot about responsibility. Different folks took me under their care and helped me. More than just in a job sense, but with things like looking for off-campus apartments. Especially Miss Martha, Miss Carla, and Miss Lisa. We could talk about anything. And they stayed on my head, but it was mostly love.
What will you miss least about working at the library? Sometimes the tasks I had to do weren’t the most organized. We were working more hard than we were smart.
What will you miss most about being a student? Meeting people quickly. It’s just easier in college.
What will you miss least about being a student? Not schoolwork. *laughs… I need a break. My brain…
What’s next for you? I’m not planning on moving back to Memphis or LA. I’m focusing on moving forward. I’d like to stay around here. I like the South. People are a lot nicer and don’t have as many trust issues. There are still nice people who are willing to help you. I have an entrepreneurial mind, so I would like to start a sports camp for kids with disabilities. Volunteering with similar programs like Chattanooga Therapeutic Recreation or Camp ZooAbility is how I got interested. Coaching or camping. Playing wheelchair basketball. Those sorts of things. That kind of work requires a lot of patience, open-mindedness, and focus. But I like it. When the kids smile, it makes me feel so good. I’m a memory in their lives. That’s big to me.
Good luck Quincy! We are proud of you.
Thank you all I love Everyonr