Process of my project
Intial Idea
The initial idea was to create a documentary and an article. I changed this idea due to the fact that I wanted my project to have a greater impact and be more flexible for the future. I also concluded that my topic was challenging enough and producing a documentary would have narrowed the focus and not allowed for future development as podcasts with different subjects would.
FInal Idea
To create an impact I decided on creating a collection of episodes in a podcast with different experts and classmates ranging from all ages and experiences. The focus is to learn from experts who work in the field I was researching, or classmates whose views on the topic I hoped to influence.
Inspiration
The homeless problem in our society is one of the most visible, constantly in front of faces although we still try to ignore it. Growing up in New York I have always wondered what is something we could all do to help with this situation. The negativity I was constantly hearing on the subject of homelessness from the media and friends was troubling. I wanted to change that narrative. I also would notice the smiles on people experiencing homelessness when feeling acknowledged by either a hello or a smile from someone else.
CHallenges
My main challenge faced throughout the project was finding people to interview for my podcast. Sending out a dozen emails daily with only four or less responding on any given day.
My second challenge was staying on task. IP10 being my first full year project, I was sometimes finding myself losing focus on what I was supposed to be working on. To work through it I would write out lists and talk to my IP10 advisor.
Week One:
Day 1
Began my research for my project.
Researched the background of homelessness in America and New York
Read negative articles on homelessness
Day 2:
Researched experts
Reached out by email to specific organizations
Day 3:
First Interview with Emma de Swan Aarons
Continued my research
Day 4:
Scheduled interview with Dr. Shen.
More research and began a website
Day 5:
The second episode of my podcast with Rostam Sardari
Week Two:
Day 1
Connected with a mission near Grace and set up an interview
More research and work on the website
Day 2:
Reached out by email to specific organizations
Continued on my website
Day 3:
Scheduled two more meetings outside of my IP10 week
Continued my research
Day 4:
Continued research and interviews
Planned out the end of my project
