Overall, my CAS experience was mixed. Our first challenges came with developing a final and tangible project that targeted creativity, action, and service. However, with guidance from Engineers that Gabriel contacted, we were able to narrow down projects that “solved problems” as that was the main focus of an engineer. Following this conversation, we worked as a team in order to brainstorm and decide on a final project. After receiving approval, we were all tasked with different aspects of our curriculum. My part consisted of the placement of the acoustic panels and the science behind it. Although we created an organized and efficient curriculum, it was difficult to teach as acoustical engineering is a complex concept. Even after researching and presenting our findings to the club, we were surprisingly inexperienced with the process of soundproofing. This realization came about when we took a visit to Sam Ash and spoke with Jacob, a sales representative who specialized in soundproofing. This was a major setback, however, it was one of the most crucial interactions for our project as it saved us from wasting our time with a project that wouldn’t do anything. Speaking with experts like Jacob, it helped our group recognize the importance of guidance as we initially tried to solve everything ourselves.
One thing that I liked from this experience was when I was tasked with creating the model of the room. I was able to teach myself how to use Google Sketchup, something I had always wanted to do. From this experience, I found an unknown interest in architecture and modeling.
Some things I would do differently is definitely create a stronger timeline and plan, and communicate better. With snow days, personal absences, and IB level classes, we quickly fell behind schedule. Also, because we didn’t do as much research as we should have, we had major setbacks that complicated the timeline. Additionally, because we didn’t communicate well with our advisors, we were forced to take down our project which was very disappointing.
Although our final project was eventually removed due to third party limitations, I enjoyed the process of learning, teaching, designing, and installing acoustical engineering equipment. I learned a lot about myself as well as improved my teamwork skills.
One thing that I liked from this experience was when I was tasked with creating the model of the room. I was able to teach myself how to use Google Sketchup, something I had always wanted to do. From this experience, I found an unknown interest in architecture and modeling.
Some things I would do differently is definitely create a stronger timeline and plan, and communicate better. With snow days, personal absences, and IB level classes, we quickly fell behind schedule. Also, because we didn’t do as much research as we should have, we had major setbacks that complicated the timeline. Additionally, because we didn’t communicate well with our advisors, we were forced to take down our project which was very disappointing.
Although our final project was eventually removed due to third party limitations, I enjoyed the process of learning, teaching, designing, and installing acoustical engineering equipment. I learned a lot about myself as well as improved my teamwork skills.