Trish Boring
As manager of IUP’s Information Desk, Trish Boring ensures no question goes unanswered, whether students ask in person at the library or by phone, email, or chat. Her team follows an “Ask Us Anything” motto to help melt away student stress. Learn more about Boring in this Faces of IUP feature.
In a nutshell, what is your role in serving students at IUP?
I manage IUP’s Information Desk in the IUP Libraries. Here, our motto is, “Seriously, ask us anything!” I work closely with student workers to answer questions about IUP, IUP Libraries, and our community. We do this through answering the main phone line, walk-ins, tours, and Hawks Q&A Center emails and chats. If we don’t know the answer, we get you to the person who does.
For you, what’s the most rewarding part of working with students?
Whether it’s student workers or the many students utilizing our libraries, I love to see the stress melt from their faces as they get the information and help that they are looking for. I also like hearing about their lives and seeing them find their special place at the IUP Libraries.
What advice would you give students about how to succeed in college?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions—about school, about work, about friends, about life.
Tell us something most people may not know about you.
I spent 20 years in youth ministry before coming to IUP. I love talking with young people about their faith journey. I learn from them as much as they learn from me.