Reflections on (dis-)orientation
Our four day orientation to our new lives is now complete and classes are underway. I wanted to take a moment to reflect before the memories fade amidst all the upcoming experiences which will undoubtedly push their way in.
I’m excited about this program. I guess that’s a bit of an understatement. I’m very much looking forward to the bonds we’ll all form with each other and really getting into the depths of that elusive thing we call “design”, or from a process perspective: “design thinking”. As I wandered home tonight, I realized that I’m fortunate enough to be asked to think hard about all the things I’ve always liked to dream about for fun. It’s hard not to feel lucky.
Orientation was nothing short of inspirational. We have our dis-orientation directors Danika and Ed to thank for that (hopefully we’ll do as well with the incoming class next year). Each professor spent a day getting to know us in their own way, often in one that was particularly meaningful to them. We spent Thursday with Bill, with the campus, and for the first time with each other. We showed off our fashion skills by modeling a self-designed line of newspaper apparel. Not bad for an hour’s work and definitely got us taking a risk or two. Friday was a day with Matt Kahn – a legend in this program. We’re fortunate enough to have class with him in his final year of teaching (he’s been at it for 61 years, since the inception of the program). I have no doubt his words will be ones I carry with me well into the future. On Saturday, we made the Loft our own, a tradition which has been carried down from the classes before us. Our work there is just beginning, but it feels good to have place we call “home” as designers. I look forward to what it’ll become. Sunday was a very special day. In addition to some reflection and sand sculpting on the beach (pictures of the whale to follow) with Banny, we were given the opportunity to meet David Kelley at his remarkable Sotssass-designed house. He’s a down to earth guy who’s followed a path not too unlike our own. It’ll be great to have his insight as well as that of the folks at IDEO as we shape our thesis projects.
It’s difficult to capture the messages and well wishes of four days in a single post, but here are a few I will carry with me:
“Our program is fluid. If you find a dry spot, spit in it.’ – Matt Kahn
Have no expectations, immerse yourself fully in the program, and make sure that every day you’re happy. The truth is that happiness is a choice. – David Kelley
Approach each experience with a zen-like beginners mind. – Bill Burnett
It’s always interesting to look out on a new class and know that many of you will become friends for life. – John Edmark
Take time to reflect in whichever way is your own. – Banny Banerjee
We were challenged by all of our professors to be bold and to always do rather than try. If we aren’t sure whether we should do something, do it. It’s easier to ask for forgiveness later (allegedly there’s a small fund to bail us out of jail if needed). We were told that this program will continually force us out of our comfort zones, but it’s in that way that we’ll ultimately grow as designers. We were also repeatedly reminded that in the end we’ll learn more from each other than from any of our professors. This is a remarkable and diverse group, and I look forward to that exchange.
Many other tidbits of wisdom, inspiration, and philosophy were shared with us and I’m sure I’ll jot them down as I continue to reflect. For now, I’m inspired and look forward to my time here over the next two years. Somehow I know I’ll look back on this as one of the most important experiences of my life.
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