What a joy to talk shop with such a wonderful group of peers, with a diverse life and work history! Delving into our course readings in a live discussion was awesome way to not only set the stage for our work these two weeks, but also to get to know each other. Nothing more bonding than being able to complain about the all-too-prevalent issues within non-profit work with the knowledge that we all want to be here anyways. The ‘productive struggle’ that was discussed in the Pedretti reading, or the discomfort in tough conversations coupled with the satisfaction of pushing through to new understanding, was the thesis for the day. I’m excited to take on this struggle with this group!

Obligatory food moment: The Coffee Movement happened to have a seasonal drink very similar to my favorite coffee at home in Durham NC, which was a beautiful moment of coincidence. Nothing says summer like a tangerine syrup in an iced beverage. And a huge thanks to Johanna for showing us one of her usual spots for lunch (Mamahuhu was great). I’m trying not to break the bank on snacks, but it may end up worth it.

Going back to the productive struggle, watching John and Nicole bounce off each other during our behind-the-scenes version of a walking tour was exciting but intimidating. It’s clear that the deep knowledge they both hold of the neighborhood serves them well in their work, and that kind of deep knowledge can’t be copied in a two-week period. However, it’s a great opportunity for us to, as Stephanie brought up, ‘relinquish ownership’ of the knowledge that should belong to everybody, and act as facilitators of an experience, rather than the end-all of knowledge.

This is something that I’m well familiar with in science programming, where the goal of many programs is for the participant to retain as much independence in their exploration as possible. I’m excited to tour the Exploratorium tomorrow to expand of this and see some incredible interactives!