A lasting memory I will have is 3D printing a final prototype for Yousra to test. Working with my teammates has been enlightening and I appreciate them walking through various steps with me. They are both mechanical engineers and so we balance each other with knowledge of human factors and user needs with the mechanics side of our prototype and design. Vlad has left a mark on me as he broke into the design and engineering sector without an engineering background. It was interesting to talk to him and I learned about how he self-taught the skills he has today. He also gave us a tour of the Learning Planet Institute’s maker space.
The first day in Paris consisted of a lot of walking since I had not purchased a public transit pass yet. I walked to a boulangerie and had a tuna salad sandwich on a baguette. I then walked to view the Marie Curie Museum from the outside. They had some informative posters. I then walked to the Pantheon and saw a view of the Eiffel Tower. So, I walked to the Eiffel Tower through the Jardin de Luxembourg. Once at the Eiffel Tower, it was a very surreal experience. I couldn’t believe that I was actually in Paris! I then walked along the Seine River to the Notre Dame and pass by the outside of Musee d’Orsay. After seeing the Notre Dame, my phone died so I had to find my way back. I asked 4 people for directions and was luckily able to make it home. My housemates and I then went to get dinner nearby.
I really enjoyed having a fresh chocolate and almond croissant in the early morning, as well as baguettes and cold cuts from the supermarket for a picnic. In both experiences, the food was delicious. The pastry in the morning was exciting as it was still warm and tasted so good. It reminded me of when I was younger and would have pastries before class for breakfast. The picnic was fun as we had a spread of goods and the baguette was delicious with all of our sides. It was fun having a casual picnic on a weekday.
The iSEED program has been very eye opening for me. I went into these courses having a basic understanding of what we would be doing, but not completely. It was nice to be surprised by different elements of the program. I spoke to many guest speakers about my goals and gained various insights. I would also take advantage of any free time to explore the city rather than staying in the hostel or apartment. Even if you are by yourself, it is nice to people watch on your own, in a new city. The UvA students are also very nice and fun to hang out with outside of the classroom. One of my favorite days in Europe has been hanging out with the UvA students after class and sitting in the park. Take advantage of being in a different country/continent and learn about any similarities and differences that can be applied to design. Also have fun and go out to experience more of the culture! You can only read/watch so much about the culture before experiencing it 🙂 
