Collaboration is something that happens everyday. Whether it be in an academic setting, at work, or even putting up with Kevin as a roommate. I'm constantly working, at least trying to work, with others to accomplish something. It's almost to the point that I don't even realize in what ways I collaborate with others on daily basis.
Anyway back to what was asked, the time I remember using collaboration the most was when I was chosen to be on the A-team for the Leadership Collaborative. It was an awesome experience but definitely a bit of wake-up call as well. Being a part of the LC 2009 I was unaware of the behind the scenes planning and logistics that took place. Everything was so smooth and well planned out that I assumed they just worked from an agenda year after year after year. I was very wrong. There is so much more that goes into it. We had meetings throughout the entire summer up until the LC 2010 took place, going over speakers, dinner times, how to accomodate people, and various other logistics. It was crazy as to how much thought went into planning the event.
Finally, when it came time for the actual LC to take place, I thought it would be just as smooth as the one I attended back in 2009. I was mistaken. I saw a completely different side to things. The 4 other A-team members and myself were flying by the seat of our pants for 4 straight days. Constantly working on little things that needed to be done before the kids got up, or went to their small groups, or got ready to get on the bus, or before they got done finishing their dinner. I could not believe how much stuff we were able to accomplish literally just moments before the small group leaders needed what we were working on. It was absolutely crazy!
Of course, in the end it was a complete success. The whole thing was a blast and it was one of the better LC's if I do say so myself. I will never forget how much work and collaboration all of us had to put in to making the LC 2010 a successful event. It was a worthwile and eye opening experience that showed how collaboration towards a common goal can achieve great success and change people's lives.
I always find it interesting when one gets a first hand look behind the scenes of any event like the Leadership Collaborative.
ReplyDeleteI got the opportunity to help out this past weekend with honors day, and I'm a good friend of one of the VCs who did a lot of the work making sure it ran well. She was running around like a mad-woman all afternoon.
Its a testament to hard work and good collaboration whenever a big event goes off without a hiccup, and it illustrates the power of collaboration.
I really like how you explained how almost everything we do is a collaboration of some sort. I have never really thought of it this way. Any kind of social interaction involves some sort of collaboration. Also great job on your results. Sounds like you did a great job.
ReplyDeleteI went to the LC night thing where the new students meet the organizations. From what I heard from years past that it was great time, little did I know how quickly I was able to meet people. I was very impressed with the organization of it though. I saw an itinerary and it looked like a lot of work.
ReplyDeleteTim, going along with what you said about honors day, and HAMB in general, that is one of the reasons that I am glad I am not a VC. Besides that I have only so much time as it is, I enjoy the talking with students and parents. the VC's don't get a chance to do that. It does take both kinds of people to be able to put on any event though. That is the key to collaboration!
ReplyDeleteWhen you do put on big events though it really does all come down to that day. Who knows what might go wrong or change at the last min. That's part of the fun right?