Geography 495: A Memorable Experience.
Apr 28th, 2011 by jorgeam
It is unbelievable how fast time has passed, four months ago I walked into a classroom atmosphere that was unlike any other I had experienced at university. The style of teaching was not a linear model where the professor pours their knowledge into students, but rather an atmosphere where each individual can learn from his or her peers through class discussion. The amazing Professor Juanita Sundberg facilitated this kind of learning environment by creating a safe space where each individual could express his or her opinions, thoughts, and experiences. To me this learning experience was tremendously valuable, but at the same time it took me a while to get used to. I want to acknowledge the great contribution that each and every one of my classmates made to my learning experience, and the overall value of this course. I also want to thank Professor Sundberg for a tremendous job in stimulating interest in the subject matter, and passionately presenting us with the social, political, economical and cultural processes that are taking place in Mexico.
In my opinion the best aspect of Geography 495 is that it takes the form of a community service model, where I could apply what I was learning to real life situations, and event organizing. I enjoyed the opportunity to work with our community partner La Mano from Vancouver, and put solidarity into action with Jolom Mayaetik from Chiapas. It was an amazing time working with Celia and Marla the two representatives that joined us from Chiapas, Mexico. Throughout the term our class put on four main events; each event had the goals to raise awareness for women’s autonomy, educate individuals about weaving as a form of creative resistance, and help Jolom Mayaetik sell their weavings. In my opinion, the class reached their goals in all four events, and had an amazing time, and unforgettable experience in doing so.
My most memorable events throughout the term were at Rhizome café, and the final event. At the Rhizome café I was happy that I had the opportunity to witness the amazing talent of my classmates in this energetic and well-planned event. It was also special because both our visitors from Chiapas, Mexico where with us for this event. I am happy that they could both enjoy what geography 495 had planned. The next event that is most memorable is the Final event. This event took a lot of work the night before, most of the class got the opportunity to cook with Marla until 1am! Which was such a fun experience, to be with your colleagues in a kitchen until 1am. The event itself was a total hit, it included, dancing, food, prizes, silent auctions, weavings, and a very emotional and well articulated speech from Marla Gutierrez.
To conclude, I find it adequate to thank all my classmates for the contribution they made in making this an amazing class. I would also like to thank our community liaison Jennifer Boundy founder of La Mano for helping us establish this relationship with Jolom Mayaetik. A huge thank you to Celia and Marla from Jolom Mayaetik for all the knowledge, and friendship they gave us, and finally a Special Thanks to Professor Juanita Sundberg for all her hard work in creating this class, and all the administrative processes that take place behind the scenes.