Play*Pause*Rewind

PlayPauseRewind

1/30/2016

"Great minds discuss ideas
Average minds discuss events
Small minds discuss people"
-Eleanor Roosevelt

2-week workshop

The last semester of college starts with an intense group project that encourages students to integrate structure & architecture to design a pedestrian/bike bridge in Granollers, Spain. It is an exceptional opportunity for everyone in the program to practice teamwork and get a little taste of what it's like to work in a design firm. I had the honor to team up with Kalin, Heather, and Stephanie. Our project is composed by a series of glued laminated timber units that serve both structural and architectural purposes. The bridge not only connects the two sides of river, but also encourages people to appreciate the nearby mountain scenery.

Here are some key points I learned from the teamwork experience:

1. Open communication is the key
Clear and respectful communication keeps the negative energy out of the team.
2. A sense of unity is important
Sometimes it's more than just "do your part". The team's benefit is always the priority.
3. Make critical decisions together
But not necessary every single decision.
4. Set objectives
A team can be efficient with clear objectives. One can always go back and review the goals when gets stuck on decisions.
5. Good ideas = Good ideas
Everyone's words should have the same weight.

Everyone is building their bridges happily

Final Review

Homie in the town

My best friend, whom I known him for 17 years, came to visit me with his girlfriend in Barcelona! Giving tours around Barcelona as a "local" made me appreciate Barcelona even more. I got to explore more places like Casa Batlló and Castillo de Montjuic and also new restaurants and bars around the city. His visit made me realized how much I've grown since the day I left Taiwan, and how our lives set apart on different directions after middle school. It's always good to catch up with old friends.