1. What have you learned so far in your work in the Makerspace?
I have learned how to be a better student and have learned how to function in a work based environment. I have learned how to present my work in a professional manner and how to receive and understand the feedback I receive from showing my work to my mentors. One memorable moment I have experienced was presenting my progress on the WSP project. My presentations have allowed me to understand how to receive feedback in a professional manner. Presenting in front of a class is very different from presenting in this work environment, and I know that what I learn from this will definitely help me in the future.
2. Based on what you have done so far, what do you think is your greatest strength and why?
I think my greatest strength is paying attention to details in my work. I like to be elaborate and impress with my work. In my recent projects, I have taken more time to create and refine my work because of the experiences I have made in Makerspace. I am also good at working with people.
3. What skill would you like to develop over the remainder of the program?
I would like to keep progressing in understanding the work based environment, such as how to behave, execute my tasks, and learn how to communicate better and more smoothly. I know this skill will be critical in my future ventures, and learning it now will raise me higher above my peers when it comes to being a respectable person with a good work ethic.
4. How has it been collaborating with your peers on-line?
Nothing has really changed for me personally. Pre-covid, I liked the environment I was able to be part of when coming to Makerspace in the school building, but my projects have always been done online (or at least what could be done online). Of course there are situations where standard pencil and paper works better, but making and compiling projects has always been easier for me with a computer because I’m able to use programs such as Photoshop and 3d model programs such as Blender and Rhino, and even simple websites such as Google Slides to express my creativity more. I am more comfortable with a mouse and keyboard instead of pencil and paper because of those reasons.
5. How has the feedback you have received from mentors affected your thoughts about your projects?
My mentors’ feedback has been invaluable to the progress and the extension/elaboration of my projects. My mentors have helped me better understand the task at hand and have pushed me to go further with creative ideas and suggestions such as creating a map of my experiences when I went to see the St. George Ferry Terminal.
6. What are you looking forward to for the rest of the program?
I am looking forward to finishing the Wayfinding Signage Project for Staten Island. I want to be able to make an impression and/or an impact on the community of St. George and their surrounding neighborhoods of North Downtown Staten Island.
7. Is there anything you would like to add?
This program has been amazing, I love connecting with my teachers outside of regular school hours and creating projects with friends. I am excited for what the future holds in this program.