Kristen Reid Boldridge
MSI ’15 (Library & Information Sciences)

Metadata and digital discovery strategist at the Obama Foundation

I graduated from UMSI with my master's degree in 2015, concentrating on the preservation of information and on library and information sciences. I then joined the Obama Foundation to serve as their metadata and digital discovery strategist.

In this role, I am responsible for metadata quality across three databases — the collections information system, the digital asset management system and the content management system. I concentrate on promoting inclusive and accessible metadata. Additionally, I work on curatorial and collections management to ensure the databases support all of the team’s work.

UMSI skills in work

In my introductory library sciences course, I learned about reference librarian interviews and other processes to assist patrons with their questions. I apply this knowledge in my work as a database manager, collaborating with non-database experts to better understand their needs and their organization.

I also apply lessons from my digital preservation coursework in my current work on digital preservation of metadata, and while working with Python to clean data.

Preparation through UMSI

My UMSI courses provided a framework for understanding, while my part-time jobs and internships offered opportunities to develop the concrete skills needed to excel. Working with the University of Michigan Library and Archives, as well as former professor Paul Conway, has been an invaluable experience beyond the classroom, preparing me for the workforce.

Most valuable UMSI experience

I really loved my data manipulation course, where I worked on a project about Taylor Swift! Part of what drew me to UMSI was the ability to take courses in the Library and Information specialization while also delving into technical concepts like Python. This flexibility empowered me to deepen both my knowledge and skill set.

Service in Alumni Career Connections mentorship program

I've volunteered as a mentor to connect with UMSI students and learn about their interests. It's been an enjoyable process, taking time to connect them with my work and the accomplishments of my peers and friends.

Advice for students

My biggest advice is to network and never give up. Finding a job after graduation can be challenging, but I found that securing my second job out of graduate school was much easier. Think of your first job as a stepping stone to your second or third—the roles where you’ll really begin to do what you want to do.

In other words, aim for the job you ultimately want, and focus on how to get there. The process may be difficult at times, but persistence pays off.

— Feb. 24, 2025