Dear Future Laura,
The next ten weeks in Detroit are going to fly by, and I hope you’ll make the most of it. So far it’s been a fantastic experience. The student apartments are very nice and your work environment is friendly and engaging. I hope by the end of the program, you will have gained insight into the non-profit sector and an understanding of Latin American culture and the Hispanic community of Detroit. So far, the Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation has been a fun place to work and I’ve gained a lot respect for the people who work there. I hope that you practice your Spanish skills and maybe even learn some new colloquial phrases. Don’t be shy to speak Spanish! Try to understand DHDC and its impact on the Hispanic community. Assess what you can do to help the organization and focus on that this summer.
So far, I’m intrigued by Detroit. There’s a strange juxtaposition of new, clean city blocks with flourishing shops and apartments and the torn-up blocks with decaying buildings. Also, I’ve noticed a contrast between long-time city residents with the growing hipster and student population (which I guess includes me). Detroit is becoming gentrified, and I’m unsure if that’s a good or bad thing for the city. The ideal would be redeveloping without displacing, but isn’t that what redeveloping entails? I’m sure you’ll learn a lot more about the current social conflicts in Detroit as the summer goes on.
Laura, make sure to befriend your co-workers and meet people both in the program and outside of the program. Get involved in Detroit- be a resident, not just a tourist. But make sure to do some touristy things. Explore the art museums; go to a Tigers Game; go to different neighborhoods and boroughs; try some restaurants while you’re at it; and listen to some Detroit techno! Remember to seize the day (#YOLO) and make the most of this opportunity.
Most importantly, I plan on keeping an open mind throughout the program and to grow as a person by the end of it.
Best,
Present Laura
Hey Laura!
I really enjoyed reading your blog post. I especially like your concluding emphasis on being a resident rather than a tourist. I think it’s an important mindset to have when you’re trying to truly understand a place.
You mentioned gentrification and I’ve been grappling with the same question of whether it’s a necessarily positive or negative phenomenon. You made an awesome point about redeveloping without displacing – I wish I knew whether/how that’s possible!
I’m also seriously impressed by your organization placement – I admire you for working not only in a new place, but also in Spanish! My dad is fluent and it’s always fascinating to watch/listen to him communicate with coworkers.
I hope you’re having a great first week – best of luck!