Libraries awards two Library Student Employee Scholarships

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The University Libraries awarded two scholarships to student employees for their outstanding contributions. Manahel Abdulrab and Autumn Ropp have been selected to receive $1,000 scholarships to support their academic pursuits at Western.

Manahel Abdulrab

Manahel Abdulrab is in her junior year, pursuing a bachelor’s in marketing. Her role on the University Libraries’ marketing team supports social media, community outreach, events and other marketing projects.

The scholarship helps ease the financial burden of college, but Abdulrab notes that getting recognition for her work motivates her to achieve her goals.

“This support allows me to focus more fully on my education, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth, giving me the confidence and freedom to invest wholeheartedly in my journey,” says Abdulrab.

From time management to content creation, her experience at the University Libraries has helped her develop essential skills for her future career. After graduation, her goal is to find a career with meaning that offers a balance between personal and professional life.

“I want to make sure I am passionate and happy with what I end up doing after graduation while creating a positive impact.”

Autumn Ropp

Autumn Ropp is a third-year student pursuing a bachelor’s in history and Latin. She works at the Zhang Legacy Collections Center, supporting community researchers and preserving our distinctive collections. 

Ropp’s work on a project to identify uncatalogued materials in our Special Collections encouraged her interest in book history.

“Being able to work on projects such as this one has taught me part of the underlying structures of information organization that allow people to gain access to valuable materials,” Ropp says.

These experiences directly support Ropp’s goal of working in special collections after graduation. She also plans to pursue a master’s degree in medieval studies or medieval history.

Ropp adds that receiving the scholarship helps both financially, but the recognition is also encouraging.

“The recognition that I have received through this award has significantly boosted my confidence and encourages me pursue new academic and career-oriented opportunities in the future.”

Learn more about the University Libraries Student Employee Scholarship.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.