05 September 2008

Open Space

Where to start...there is so much happening so fast!!!

When you were all likely taking time off for labor day I was starting my first day of class, and what a first day it was. We jumped right into an 'open space' session where we were charged with a 10 page report due the following day relating to our collective goals as a class for the year. As you can imagine, this was quite overhwhelming and chaotic at first but somehow we struggled though it, and learned alot about eachother in the process. I came to realize that I am the only architect in the program, but there are several people who are interested or experienced in the building industry (urban planner, civil engineer, industrial designer) who may be potential thesis partners -it's too soon to tell.

Later in the week Dr Karl Henrik Robert - founder of The Natural Step and the program at BTH/ adjunt professor- made his first appearance. After listening to him for just an hour and witnessing his passion for sustainability I have left behind any doubts that I had about this progam and my decision to leave my life in the US for a year of study. I am inspired, motivated, intimidated, anxious, excited and relieved to be here (I just wish Joe was here to share this experience with me).

As for housing, I traded in the hostel for a couch at my friends place until the 15th when I can move into my apartment. I found an amazing place in the center of town and am very much looking forward to settling in and unpacking my suitcase. I will be living with Sara, a classmate from Vancouver, who reminds me of my undergrad roomate Stacy. If this is any indication of the year to come I know we are going to have a good time.

More later, hope all is well back home.

2 comments:

Lakshmi said...

Hey babe , Good to hear u r making your way thru the new challenges. I bet the program is exciting and you will gain tons from it. I admire your decision to go for this. The experience and the journey through your masters and stay in Sweden outweigh every challenge that you may face.
We are rooting for ya !

boos_mama said...

Hi Mary,
I just wrote to you; but then,discovered that I had to sign-up in order to "blog"! Ugh...I am a newbie at this. I am so excited to be able to share in your experiences with you this way!I am glad to hear that things are going well for you and that you seem to be very happy with this opportunity! I am thrilled for you! When can I come and visit?
The "Boys" are at "Indy"!
They are there for 4 days to watch the motorcycle races (Moto GP)!
I am home working, and then I am off to Cleveland to visit Angie over the weekend!
It is so quiet around here without them and I miss them already!
I can imagine how difficult it will be for you and my Bro...
Miss you both!
Take Care.
XO