C O M M U N I T Y
My introduction to the world of Making thus far has been strange and not ideal. I officially became part of the UTeach Maker in I believe the Spring of 2020. It could have been the Fall of 2019, but to be honest, my brain has yet to process the year 2020, so it is just a black hole for right now. Either way, the point is that I had an already late entrance into Maker that was then cut short. Thanks, 'Rona.
Outside of cohort meetings, there were two Maker events that stick out clearly in my mind. These events have really shaped my perception of the what and the who of the Maker community. The first was when I met my mentor, Oren Connell at his MakerSpace within the Ann Richards School. Now, I had never really seen a MakerSpace until I walked back into Oren's shop. I could try to explain it, but that would do the space no justice. I recall stepping into the room and just looking around. All I could think about was all the ideas that could be made possible. It looked more like a professional workshop than a classroom in a school. It looked like an inventor's playground. It just looked amazing. Then Mr. Oren Connell, talk about such a welcoming, kind spirit. I began by telling him that I was more of the Imagineer rather than the Creator. I had the big vision but I wasn't too confident in the execution. His response? I can help you with that. Hm, a stranger. Offering up help to another stranger for no benefit of their own.
The next monumental moment was visiting Austin co.lab. Yet again, another MakerSpace that made my jaw drop. Once again, the infinite possibilities of creations waiting to be create was endless in this space. Not only was the space itself memorable, but the people who filled the space made it even better. This was the first Maker event that I was able to attend outside of Painter Hall and I am so, so glad that I was able to go.
My involvement with the Maker community has been limited, but these two experiences cause me to look forward to post-COVID community experiences. It's nice to be in a space with people who are kind and welcoming to all.