Week 3: Media Project Collaboration...

Since one of the objectives of this month is to develop a roadmap for our media projects, I got to thinking... When it comes to creating something stellar, aren't two heads better than one? I mean, we can't all be good at everything... so why not ask an expert for help?

One of my weaknesses lies in the composition of original music for inclusion in my multimedia projects. Sure, I know HOW to do it and, if I spent enough time on it, I'm sure I could produce something that wasn't "too bad." But what if what I want is musical brilliance? I recognize the importance of music in a multimedia project to not only set the tone of the piece, but also to inspire, entertain and inform the viewer. If I can't personally produce such a musical masterpiece, can I outsource the task? Better yet, can I swap my skills as a designer for the music I need for my media project?

An open letter to Dr. Sue Bedard:

Hi Dr. Bedard,

Would I be breaking any rules if I asked a fellow classmate to compose an original piece of music to include as just a component part of my media project and, in exchange, I offered to design a graphical component for his?

Is such a thing frowned upon and celebrated as collaboration?

Her response:

As long as you are in charge of the production of the project you can ask for help and assistance on what ever you would like :)

Image Credit: Stock photography purchased by Emily Wray from http://www.photos.com.

Week 1: Props Props for Everyone

Some of the most amazing things to evolve during my 8 months in the EMDT program have been my relationships, both personal and professional, with my fellow students. I've enjoyed each challenge we've met and overcome through synergistic collaboration. And while everything hasn't always been babies, butterfiles and rainbows, I can't say I've had a bad experience working with this group. Every obstacle has been a chance to grow and learn.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention how HARD it is to form a group each month. It's difficult to balance the desire to stay with the friends you've made versus the desire to see what everyone else has to offer... It's tricky! I almost wish there was some sort of revolving grouping system that randomly assigned us to groups each month, ensuring that we work with everyone at least once. There is so much to learn from the experience of working with new people.

That being said, I'd like to give a couple of shout-outs!

First, to all my EMDT colleagues... I hope this is just the beginning of our career networking. I've posted links to each of your blogs in the right-hand navigation menu. Show em what you got!

Second, to my group members this month...

Libby Perry - We've worked together many times over the course of the program! I am continually WOWed by the professionalism of your work and always so excited to see how you step it up each month. I know I can rely on you as a group member and as a friend.

Nick Briscoe - This is just the second time we've worked together, but I have again sought you out for your tremendous work ethic and candor. Striking up a friendship with you has been the easiest part of this program!

Abram Siegel - We're long time comrades too! Ever since our Month 1 PB&J Project... Ahhh the PB&J song! There's no denying your mad musical skillz and your generosity in sharing that gift with all of us. You know I think you're rad.

Chris McHugh - This is our first time working together and I am more than excited about it! I have long admired your artistic contributions in previous courses and can't wait to see how our similar tastes (remember Dr. Repp's class???) translate into a group project.

Julia Mckinney - Last, but certainly not least. You have been a confidant and guide to me through the program. I sincerely appreciate the honest feedback and support you've offered in projects past.

Now that I feel like I'm writing in everyone's yearbook, there's only one thing to say - Stay sweet and KIT!

Image Credit: Individual images combined and posted with the express permission of Libby Perry, Nick Briscoe, Abram Siegel, Julia Mckinney, Chris McHugh and Emily Wray.