As a UCR student majoring in history, Enid Ocegueda’s path to becoming an archivist started unexpectedly — with a class assignment. 

While conducting original research for a World War I history course, she explored the archives for the first time and discovered a collection of propaganda posters. This prompted her to write about propaganda methods aimed at women, which was later published in UCR’s Undergraduate Research Journal. The experience further sparked her interest in archival work and set her on a path that would lead her to work in the archives.

During her time at UCR, Enid worked as a student assistant in the library’s administrative office in 2015-2016. Though her role primarily involved administrative tasks, her supervisor, Executive Assistant to the University Librarian Terri Gutierrez, recognized her dedication and encouraged her growing interest in archives and librarianship. Inspired, Enid pursued various internships as a student. Her first internship at the California Museum of Photography gave her her first hands-on experience in archival work.

“I realized then how much I enjoyed working with historical materials,” Enid recalls. “That internship solidified my interest in archives.” She later pursued an internship with the National Archives in Perris, CA, and then ventured to the east coast through the UCDC program and worked as a Collections Intern for the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument.

Determined to build her career in the field, Enid completed her master’s degree in Library and Information Science at San Jose State University. From there, she gained experience working at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, followed by a corporate librarian role at Edwards Lifesciences, before returning to Stanford as a Project Archivist for the University Archives.

Now, Enid is preparing to start her new role at Princeton University as the Processing Archivist for the Latin American Manuscripts Collections — a position that aligns with her passion for preserving diverse voices in archival spaces.

“I’m excited about this role because it’s dedicated to Latin American collections,” she explains. “That’s rare in this field, and it’s a chance to focus on ensuring those voices are preserved and made accessible.”

Enid’s passion for this work stems from her realization that Latin American stories are often missing from archives. “I didn’t see many collections that reflected my background,” she says. “That motivated me to become part of the solution — to bring those voices into the archives.”

Reflecting on her journey, Enid encourages students interested in library or archival careers to embrace every opportunity.

“Put yourself out there,” she advises. “Even if you’re not sure where your path is heading, taking on different roles and being open to new experiences can help you find what you’re passionate about.”

As she prepares for this next chapter at Princeton, Enid is excited to focus on connecting researchers with Latin American collections and ensuring these important materials are preserved for future generations.